Rest In Peace David Bowie: 1947 - 2016

After an 18-month battle with cancer, music icon David Bowie died yesterday amidst his family in New York City. The star's musical Lazarus, co-written with Enda Walsh and directed by Ivo van Hove, continues to play to packed houses at the New York Theatre Workshop through to 20 January 2016. Could a Broadway transfer now be in the show's future?

David Bowie also appeared on the Broadway stage as John Merrick in 'The Elephant Man' from 1980-81 at the Booth Theatre. The role was revived by Bradley Cooper at the exact same theatre from 2014-15. His music was also featured in the Broadway production of 'Rock 'N Roll! The First 5,000 Years' in 1982 at the St James Theatre.

Besides his Broadway debut, Bowie's other acting credits include screen credits such as "The Man Who Fell to Earth," "Labyrinth," "The Hunger," "Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence," "Absolute Beginners," "The Last Temptation of Christ," "The Linguini Incident," "Everybody Loves Sunshine," and "The Prestige."

As a Grammy and BRIT Award-winning recording artist, Bowie released a grand total of 27 studio albums, with his final offering "Blackstar" released on 8 January 2016 - just two days before his death. He was awarded the Grammy for Lifetime Achievement in 2006.

Lazarus began previews on 18 November 2015 and official opened on 7 December. Originally scheduled to conclude its limited engagement on 27 December 2015, the musical was initially extended through to 17 January 2016 and then again through to 20 January (with the last date as a Benefit Gala with tickets from $1000).

Inspired by the 1963 novel 'The Man Who Fell to Earth' by Walter Tevis, the drama feature songs specially composed by David Bowie for this production as well as new arrangements of previously recorded songs.

Lazarus centres on the character of Thomas Newton, famously portrayed by Mr. Bowie in the 1976 screen adaptation directed by Nicolas Roeg.

The cast of Lazarus includes Golden Globe winner and six-time Emmy nominee Michael C. Hall (Thomas Newton), Tony nominee Cristin Milioti (Elly), Michael Esper (Valentime), along with Krystina Alabado, Sophia Ann Caruso, Nicholas Christopher, Lynn Craig, Bobby Moreno, Krista Pioppi, Charlie Pollock, and Brynn Williams.

The creative team features music direction by Henry Hey, choreography by Annie-B Parson, scenic & lighting design by Jan Versweyveld, costume design by An D'Huys, sound design by Brian Ronan and video design by Tal Yarden.

- by Tom Millward