Unchain My Heart, The Ray Charles Musical, which was previously announced to open at the Ethel Barrymore on November 7, has shifted its production plans, and will now open at a theater to be announced in the Spring of 2011. According to a press statement, “logistical reasons” are the cause of the delay.
The musical features a book by Suzan-Lori Parks, and direction by Sheldon Epps. The principal cast — Brandon Victor Dixon as Ray Charles, Nikki Renée Daniels as Della, Harrison White as Jeff Brown and Tasha Taylor as Margie Hendricks — is expected to stay with the production.
Set during Charles’ last live recording session, the musical explores the strength, humor and musical genius of this legendary figure. Unchain My Heart will feature some of Charles’ best-known hits including: “Georgia on My Mind,” “What’d I Say,” “Mess Around,” “Hit The Road, Jack,” “Unchain My Heart,” “I Got a Woman” and “Hallelujah, I Love Her So.”
The creative team will include Kenneth L. Roberson (choreography), Edgar Godineaus (associate choreographer), Rahn Coleman (musical supervision and arrangements), Harold Wheeler (orchestrations), Shelton Becton (music direction), Riccardo Hernandez (sets), Paul Tazewell (costumes), Howell Binkley (lights), Carl Casella (sound), and Jason H. Thompson (projections).
For more information, visit www.UnchainMyHeartOnBroadway.com.
