'The Heart of Rock and Roll' to open on Broadway this spring
The new musical features the songs of Huey Lewis and the News, the 1980s rock band famous for tunes like "The Power of Love" and "Do You Believe in Love."
Get ready to rock! A new musical titled The Heart of Rock and Roll will premiere on Broadway this spring. Performances begin March 29 at the James Earl Jones Theatre, with opening night set for April 22.
The Heart of Rock and Roll is set to the songs of Huey Lewis and the News, the band best known for "The Power of Love," the theme song for the Back to the Future film (which is also featured in the currently-running Broadway musical of the same name). Their greatest hits, many of which charted in the '80s and established them as a major band in that era's rock scene, also include "Do You Believe in Love," "Back in Time," "Hip to Be Square," "The Heart of Rock & Roll."
“Working on our show has been so gratifying,” said Huey Lewis in a statement. “I’ve always been a storyteller, and it’s a thrill to see my songs woven together in service of a fantastic, new story. That it will all take place on the world’s most prestigious stage – Broadway – just makes the ride that much sweeter.”
These songs and more underscore the story of Bobby, a wannabe band leader from Chicago who trades in his guitar for a corporate job after multiple rejections. But his new boss, Cassandra, has her own dreams to become CEO of their company, and the two help each other take another shot at the lives they truly want. The script is by Jonathan A. Abrams, based on a story by Tyler Mitchell and Abrams.
The Heart of Rock and Roll premiered at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego in 2018. Most of the lead creative team from that production returns for the Broadway version, including director Gordon Greenberg, choreographer Lorin Latarro, and music supervisor, arranger, and orchestrator Brian Usifer.
Tony Award winner Matt Doyle and Katie Rose Clarke led the cast of the San Diego production. Casting and additional creative team members for The Heart of Rock and Roll on Broadway have yet to be announced.
Photo credit: The Heart of Rock and Roll in San Diego. (Photo by Jim Cox)
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.
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