‘The Heart of Rock and Roll’ to close on Broadway

The romantic comedy musical, featuring the hit ’80s songs of Huey Lewis and the News, stars Corey Cott and McKenzie Kurtz at the James Earl Jones Theatre.

Gillian Russo
Gillian Russo

The heart of rock and roll isn’t beating. The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway, a new musical set to the songs of Huey Lewis and the News, has set its Broadway closing date. The final performance will be at the James Earl Jones Theatre on June 23, at which time it will have played 96 total performances.

The original musical began Broadway performances on March 29 after a 2018 world premiere in San Diego, California. The Heart of Rock and Roll tells the love story between rock musician-turned-salesman Bobby and wannabe boss Cassandra. Both feeling unfulfilled with their current lives and work at their cardboard factory, their romance, and their friends, end up inspiring each other to chase their dreams.

The show is written by Jonathan A. Abrams (from a story by Tyler Mitchell and Abrams) and set to the songs of hit ’80s band Huey Lewis and the News, including “The Power of Love,” “Stuck With You,” and “Do You Believe in Love?”

The Heart of Rock and Roll cast includes Corey Cott as Bobby, McKenzie Kurtz as Cassandra, Josh Breckenridge as Wyatt, F. Michael Haynie as Glenn, Zoe Jensen as Paige, Tamika Lawrence as Roz, Raymond J. Lee as JJ, John-Michael Lyles as Eli, Orville Mendoza as Fjord, Billy Harrigan Tighe as Tucker, and John Dossett as Stone.

New York Theatre Guide’s critic wrote in a The Heart of Rock and Roll review, “I had a good, old-fashioned great time for 2.5 hours.Director Gordon Greenberg’s production is eager to sweep you up in its bright lights, even brighter costumes, and heart-thumping sound.”

Photo credit: The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway. (Photo by Matthew Murphy)

Frequently asked questions

What is The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway about?

When an aspiring rockstar and hopeful business leader cross paths, they might just be each other's ticket to the dreams — and love — they never thought they'd reach. The songs of Huey Lewis and the News, like "The Power of Love," fuel this feel-good rom-com.

Where is The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway playing?

The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway is playing at James Earl Jones Theatre. The theatre is located at 138 West 48th Street, New York, 10036.

How long is The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway?

The running time of The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway is 2hr 30min. Incl. 15min intermission.

What's the age requirement for The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway?

The recommended age for The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway is Ages 8+. No children under 4 are permitted in the theater..

How do you book tickets for The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway?

Book tickets for The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway on New York Theatre Guide.

Who wrote The Heart of Rock and Roll?

Jonathan A. Abrams (book) and Huey Lewis (music and lyrics) wrote The Heart of Rock and Roll. Abram's script is based on a story by him and Tyler Mitchell.

Who directed The Heart of Rock and Roll?

Gordon Greenberg directs The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway. His previous directing credits include Holiday Inn, The New Irving Berlin Musical on Broadway and Dracula, A Comedy of Terrors off Broadway.

What are the songs in The Heart of Rock and Roll?

"The Power of Love," "Hip to Be Square," "Heart and Soul," "Do You Believe in Love," "Stuck With You," and "Workin' for a Livin'" are among the songs in The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway. All the musical's songs are existing hits from Huey Lewis and the News.

Is The Heart of Rock and Roll appropriate for kids?

The Heart of Rock and Roll is recommended for ages 8 and older. Please note that children 4 and younger are not permitted in Broadway theatres.

Is The Heart of Rock and Roll good?

Yes — The Heart of Rock and Roll is a romantic, lively show that taps into nostalgia for Huey Lewis fans with its score, but the musical offers a fun story for audiences of any age.

Originally published on

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