Andrew Durand Lands Title Role in North American Premiere of 'Benjamin Button' Musical
The 'Dead Outlaw' Tony nominee will lead the cast this fall in the Olivier-winning musical, which reimagines the classic story in a Cornish fishing village.
“The stage musical adaptation of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button will make its North American premiere Off Broadway at the Public Theater this fall, with Dead Outlaw Tony nominee Andrew Durand taking the title role.”
Tony nominee Andrew Durand will star in the title role of the stage musical adaptation of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button this fall, according to Deadline. The production will make its North American premiere Off Broadway at the Public Theater.
Durand, currently starring in Broadway's The Rocky Horror Show, will lead a company of actor-musicians. Kelsee Kimmel will play Elowen Keene.
When are the performance dates?
The musical begins previews October 8, officially opens October 21, and will run through November 15 at The Public's Newman Theater. Full casting for the production has been announced, with the ensemble including Britney Coleman, Trevor Lindley Craft, Brandon J. Ellis, Katie Horner, Sachiko Mae, Morgan Morse, Kris Saint-Louis, Claire-Frances Sullivan, and Matt Wolpe.
What is this musical adaptation like?
The adaptation, which won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical in 2025, reimagines F. Scott Fitzgerald's short story. It resets the tale of a man born elderly who ages in reverse to a Cornish fishing village on the coast of Great Britain, giving characters Cornish names. The story traces the main character's life from World War I through the 20th century.
The creative team from the West End production will reassemble for the New York staging. Jethro Compton, who wrote the book with Darren Clark and provides scenic design, will again direct. The team also includes choreographer Chi-San Howard, music director Mark Aspinall, and costume designer Anna Kelsey.
Andrew Durand's Broadway credits also include Shucked, Spring Awakening, War Horse, Head Over Heels, and Ink. The musical features music by Darren Clark and lyrics by Clark and Compton.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote the music and lyrics for the 'Benjamin Button' musical?
The music is by Darren Clark. The lyrics are by Darren Clark and Jethro Compton, who also co-wrote the book.
Where did this musical premiere before coming to New York?
The musical premiered in London's West End, where it won the 2025 Olivier Award for Best New Musical.
How does this stage version differ from the Brad Pitt film?
The musical reimagines the setting, moving the story to a Cornish fishing village in Great Britain and using Cornish names for the characters. It is presented with a company of 15 actor-musicians on stage.
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