PCS Scores a Broadway Star for the World Premiere of "Somewhere in Time"
Marc Kudisch (as Franklin Hart) with the inimitable Dolly Parton (music and lyrics) and the Broadway cast of "9 to 5: The Musical": Megan Hilty (as Doralee Rhodes), Stephanie J. Block (as Judy Bernley), and Allison Janney (as Violet Newstead). Photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging
This May, Portland Center Stage brings the coveted Broadway actor and triple Tony Award nominee, Marc Kudisch, whose Broadway credits range from 9 to 5 to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Thoroughly Modern Millie, to town to star in the world-premiere production of the new musical Somewhere in Time, running May 28–June 30. Based on the novel by Richard Matheson and the consequent 1980 film starring Christopher Reeve, Jane Seymour, and Christopher Plummer, this first-ever musical production premieres with original music by Doug Katsaros, lyrics by Amanda Yesnowitz, and book by Ken Davenport. The award-winning Broadway and Off Broadway director Scott Schwartz will direct, and two-time Tony-nominated John Carrafa will choreograph. [Ed Note 3/5/13: The production just added two more actors with Broadway credits under their belts: Ryan Silverman and Hannah Elles.]
The romantic classic begins with Richard Collier as a sophomoric playwright who encounters an enigmatic older woman during a time when his career holds endless potential for success. Later in life, after things fail to turn out as hoped, Collier journeys back to a hotel from his earlier days in search of introspection and clarity. It is here the true story begins. Collier voyages through his past and falls into the arms of an intoxicating but seemingly impossible love.
Kudisch will play Robinson, Elisa McKenna’s controlling manager, and the role made famous in the film adaptation by Christopher Plummer.
“I’m proud that Portland Center Stage has earned a reputation as a theater committed to, and excelling in, the production of new work,” said Artistic Director Chris Coleman in the press release. “We have also cultivated an audience for great musicals, so when the opportunity arose to become part of launching this exciting world premiere musical, we knew it would be a terrific addition to our 25th Anniversary Season.”
An impressive cadre of creatives also make up the behind the scenes crew, including set design by Alexander Dodge, costume design by PCS resident designer Jeff Cone, lighting design by Mike Baldassari, orchestrations by Doug Katsaros and Bruce Coughlin, and musical direction by Patrick Vaccariello.
