Dave Delays First Preview at Arena Stage
(© Tricia Baron)
The first five preview performances of the new musical Dave, originally scheduled to begin performances tonight at Arena Stage, have been canceled because of actor illness. Previews will now begin on Wednesday, July 18.
Press materials state: "Douglas Sills, playing Chief of Staff Bob Alexander, has had minor unexpected surgery and we expect a speedy recovery for him. While Douglas recovers, Dave cast member Jared Bradshaw will step into the role of Bob Alexander. Thomas Adrian Simpson (Arena Stage's A Raisin in the Sun and Carousel) will also join the ensemble.
A member of the Arena Stage sales team will contact all patrons holding tickets for the first five preview performances, with an option to exchange into any other performance of Dave.
Directed by Tony nominee Tina Landau (SpongeBob SquarePants), Dave features a book by Nell Benjamin and the late Thomas Meehan, with a score by Benjamin (lyrics) and Tom Kitt (music). The musical is based on the Warner Bros. motion picture written by Gary Ross, and is presented by special arrangement with Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures, Doshudo Productions, and Larger Than Life.
Drew Gehling (Waitress) stars as Dave Kovic, a high school teacher and presidential lookalike who is hired by the Secret Service as a stand-in for the president. When the president falls ill, Dave is thrust into the White House to avoid a national scandal. Also featured in the cast are Mamie Parris as First Lady Ellen Mitchell, Josh Breckenridge, Rachel Flynn, Bryonha Marie Parham, and Jonathan Rayson.
