The War of the Roses Hits Broadway in 2015/16

It has been announced that a stage adaptation of Warren Adler's 1981 novel The War of the Roses is heading to Broadway in the 2015/2016 season.

Producers Jay Gutterman, Cindy Gutterman, Cathy Chernoff, Carl Moellenberg and Wendy Federman announced their intentions to mount the production at a yet to be named Broadway venue. Adapted by the novelist Warren Adler, the stage adaptation has been produced around the world on multiple occasions. The 1989 film version starring Michael Douglas, Danny DeVito and Kathleen Turner further expanded the worldwide recognition of this title.

The War of the Roses is a dark comedy about the breakup of a marriage which leads to the ugliest divorce imaginable, one that is both frightening and revealing. Jonathan and Barbara Rose are, at first glance, the perfect couple. Their large home holds their antique collection that originally brought them together, as well as their children, Eve and Josh. When Jonathan finds himself gripped by a heart attack, Barbara confronts the loveless spell lingering between them, and their mutual hatred becomes the ammunition in a domestic warfare that escalates the unfolding chaos in the most unpredictable ways.

Warren Adler works have been translated into over 25 languages worldwide. Following the success of 'The War of the Roses', Adler went on to sell film rights for 12 of his books including 'Private Lives' and 'Random Harts'. His novel 'The Sunset Gang' was adapted into a trilogy for PBS's American Playhouse series, while the musical version received an Off-Broadway production with music scored by composer L. Russell Brown.

Casting, creative team, venue, and a Broadway opening date for The War of the Roses will be announced at a later date.

- by Dom O'Hanlon