Leap of Faith: musical arriving in Fall 2012

Composer Alan Menken and lyricist Glenn Slater's musical stage adaptation of the 1992 Steve Martin film, Leap of Faith, is to arrive on Broadway in the fall of 2012, starring Raúl Esparza.

The musical, written by composer Alan Menken and lyricist Glenn Slater, tells the story of Jonas Nightengale (Esparza), a fraudulent Christian faith healer whose traveling ministry breaks down in a small Kansas town. Jonas quickly pitches a tent and invites the locals to a revival. The sheriff is determined to stop Jonas from separating the townspeople from their money, but Jonas' real challenge arises when he meets the pretty waitress Marva and her son, whose love forces an ultimate cynic to take a real Leap of Faith.

The Broadway production will be directed by Tony-nominated Christopher Ashley (Memphis, Rocky Horror Show) and be choreographed by Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys, Memphis). Tony Award-winner Warren Leight (Side Man), will work with Janus Cercone to revise the book for Leap of Faith. Sergio Trujillo, with credits such as Jersey Boys and Memphis, will be the choreographer.

Christopher Ashley said, "I can't say enough about the power of the story and music, and about the world class creative team. I also look forward to continuing my collaboration with Raúl Esparza, with whom I have worked on two revivals ('Rocky Horror' on Broadway and 'Merrily We Roll Along' at the Kennedy Center). Directing Raúl as he creates a new role completes the trifecta."

Janus Cercone said, "Even when we were shooting the movie of Leap of Faith, it was clear that this material was destined for live theatre. Raúl was born to play the role of Jonas Nightingale, and I'm excited that Warren and Chris are joining the creative team to help fully realize the Broadway production."

Warren Leight said "I'm thrilled to be working with this creative team. The story of Jonas Nightingale is moving, funny, and at times, miraculous. I can't wait for audiences to take the leap with us."

Leap of Faith had its world premier at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles, where it played from 11 Sep - 24 Oct 2010. The Los Angeles production was directed and choreographed by Rob Ashford, and stared Raúl Esparza as 'Jonas Nightengale,' and Brooke Shields as 'Marva.' The book was written by Janus Cercone - who authored the original screenplay - and by Glenn Slater.

The Paramount 1992 movie Leap of Faith - screen play by Janus Cercone and directed by Richard Pearce - starred Steve Martin as 'Jonas Nightengale' and Lolita Davidovich as 'Marva.'