Billy Crystal’s 700 Sundays Extends to June 12; Lennon Changes Dates

Billy Crystal’s autobiographical solo show 700 Sundays, which is nominated for the Tony Award for Best Special Theatrical Event, has just been extended through June 12. As a result, the Broadhurst Theater’s next tenant, Lennon, has moved its first preview to July 7 and postponed its opening to August 4.

“I’ve never been good with separation anxiety, so I’m staying for three more weeks,” said Crystal of the extension. 700 Sundays opened on December 5, 2004 and was originally scheduled to run until March 6, 2005. It quickly extended until May 21 and recently added an extra performance Sunday, May 22 as a benefit for The Actors’ Fund of America. The show won this year’s Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding Solo Performance; it is nominated for a Drama Desk Award for Solo Performance and will compete for the Tony Award against Dame Edna: Back With a Vengeance, Laugh Whore, and Whoopi.

Lennon was originally scheduled to begin previews on June 28 and to open on July 28. Stated producer Allan McKeown: “We fully understand Billy’s desire to extend a few weeks, and we look forward to moving into the Broadhurst after he has completed his successful run.” Lennon uses more than two dozen songs written by the late Beatle to tell his life story. Written and directed by Don Scardino, the show stars Will Chase, Chuck Cooper, Julie Danao, Mandy Gonzalez, Marcy Harriell, Chad Kimball, Terrence Mann, Julia Murney, and Michael Potts.