The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess Officially Confirmed for Broadway

Following mixed reviews in Boston, there have been rumors that the A.R.T. production of The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess might not reach Broadway. However, the estates of George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin, and DuBose and Dorothy Heyward have now officially endorsed the production, which is scheduled to begin Broadway performances on December 17 at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, with an opening on January 12.

Diane Paulus has directed the production, which features revisions from Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks and Obie Award-winning composer Diedre Murray.

Representatives from the original creators’ estates have sent in letters of support for A.R.T.’s version, with Michael Strunsky, of The Ira and Leonore S. Gershwin Trusts saying, “They have taken the heart of the piece and adapted it to the conventions of contemporary musical theatre and the result is an exhilarating and stunning theatrical experience.”

The Broadway production will star Audra McDonald as Bess, Norm Lewis as Porgy and David Alan Grier as Sporting Life, reprising their A.R.T. roles.

The creative team includes choreographer Ronald K. Brown, set designer Riccardo Hernandez, costume designer Emilio Sosa, lighting designer Christopher Akerlind, and sound by Acme Sound Partners.

For TheaterMania’s roundup of Boston reviews, click here.

For tickets and more information on the Broadway run, click here.