The Heart of Rock and Roll, a new musical featuring the hit songs of ’80s superstars Huey Lewis and The News, is coming to Broadway this spring, with previews beginning at The James Earl Jones Theatre on Friday, March 29, 2024, ahead an opening night on Monday, April 22.
Producers Hunter Arnold, Tyler Mitchell and Kayla Greenspan announced the opening date today.
Described as a “raucous rom-com,” The Heart of Rock and Roll includes such Lewis songs as the title track, “The Power of Love,” “Workin’ For A Livin’,” “Stuck With You,” and “If This Is It.”
The official synopsis: The Heart of Rock and Roll “centers on a couple of thirty-somethings who know exactly what they want from life – until they find each other. It’s going to take ‘The Power of Love’ — and a little help from their friends — to show them the way.”
The production, directed by Gordon Greenberg, will feature a book by Jonathan A. Abrams, and story by Tyler Mitchell and Abrams. Music supervision, arrangements, and orchestrations are by Brian Usifer, and choreography is by Lorin Latarro.
“Working on our show has been so gratifying,” said 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.”
Producer Arnold added, “Huey Lewis’s song catalogue is not just music – it’s a powerful bridge to an era when our hearts danced freely, love knew no bounds, and every moment was a celebration of life. This show is more than nostalgia; it is remedy for our age of anxiety and a joyful gift to Broadway audiences.”
Casting and additional news will be announced at a later date.
The Heart of Rock and Roll premiered in San Diego at The Old Globe in 2018.