Xanadu To Open July 10

The Broadway musical Xanadu has set a new opening date of July 10. The musical, which is currently in previews at the Helen Hayes Theater, was originally scheduled to open on June 26 but was delayed due to an injury suffered by leading man James Carpinello. As previously reported, Cheyenne Jackson was brought in to replace Carpinello in the role of Sonny, and will now be opening in the show.

Jackson starred on Broadway in the musical All Shook Up, and also appeared in Aida and Thoroughly Modern Millie. He played Sonny in a workshop production of Xanadu, and he will assume the role on Broadway as of Friday, June 22. The part is currently being played by Carpinello’s understudy, Andre Ward, who usually plays Terpsicore.

Xanadu also stars Kerry Butler, Tony Roberts, Jackie Hoffman, Mary Testa, Anika Larsen, Kenita R. Miller, and Curtis Holbrook. Carpinello previously starred on Broadway as Tony Manero in Saturday Night Fever and is also known for his Off-Broadway performance in Stupid Kids.

Xanadu, based on the 1980 movie of the same title, has a book by Douglas Carter Beane and is directed by Christopher Ashley. The score, by John Farrar and Jeff Lynne, includes the pop hits “Magic,” “Xanadu,” “Party All Over the World,” and “I’m Alive.”