Theater News

Manu Narayan Replaces Neil Maffin in Sidd

Manu Narayan
Manu Narayan

Manu Narayan has replaced Neil Maffin in the title role in Sidd, a new musical adapted from the classic Herman Hesse novel Siddhartha, which will open officially on March 15 at Dodger Stages. In addition, Natalie Cortez will now play the role of Mala, previously played by Pamela Jordan, who has left the show for “personal reasons.”

Sidd features a score by Douglas Silver and a book and additional lyrics by Andrew Frank, who will direct the production. The show chronicles a man’s spiritual journey from his youthful wanderings in his home village through his encounter with the Holy Buddha, his many years living amidst the glamour, jazz and corruption of the city, and his eventual enlightenment as a ferryman.

Also in the cast are Marie-France Arcilla, Dann Fink, Nicole Lewis, Arthur Marks, and Gerry McIntyre. The creative team includes Fran Kirmser (choreography), Maruti Evans (set design), Chris Dallos (lighting design), Michael Bevins (costume design), Andrew Bellware (sound design), and Ned Ginsburg (musical direction).

Narayan, who had appeared in previous workshops of Sidd, starred in the Broadway production of Bombay Dreams and recently appeared at Yale Rep in The People Next Door.