New musical 'Wanted' sets Broadway premiere in October
Previously titled Gun & Powder, the show, inspired by a true story, previously ran at New Jersey's Paper Mill Playhouse and Virginia's Signature Theatre.
Summary
- The musical Wanted will premiere on Broadway at the James Earl Jones Theatre in October
- The show follows the true story of outlaw sisters Mary and Martha Clarke
- Liisi LaFontaine and Solea Pfeiffer star as the sisters
The new musical Wanted will officially have its Broadway premiere this fall, with performances beginning at the James Earl Jones Theatre on October 15 ahead of a November 8 opening.
Set in 1893 Texas, Wanted is inspired by the true story of Mary and Martha Clarke, two African American twin sisters who passed as white and became outlaws to save their family. The show premiered at Signature Theatre in Virginia in 2020 and played at the Paper Mill Playhouse in New Jersey in 2024.
Liisi LaFontaine (Moulin Rouge! The Musical in London) will reprise her role from the Paper Mill production as Martha Clarke, and Solea Pfeiffer (Hadestown, Moulin Rouge! on Broadway) joins as Mary Clarke.
Wanted features a book and lyrics by Angelica Chéri, a descendant of Mary and Martha Clarke; music by Ross Baum; direction by Tony Award nominee Stevie Walker-Webb; and choreography by Chelsey Arce.
“We’re so happy to finally bring this show we love so much to Broadway,” said Pfeiffer and LaFontaine in a joint statement. “Getting to highlight a piece of American history so rarely talked about, and to step into the boots of these extraordinary women is an honor we don’t take lightly.
"We know the importance of seeing yourself onstage, and to represent the complicated and beautiful tapestry of this country on Broadway is a dream realized. To get to do it together is a dream come true. We can’t wait for the world to meet the Sisters Clarke.”
“Sharing this milestone during Women’s History Month feels especially meaningful, as the musical continues to shine a light on the legacy of women whose stories have too often been overlooked," said the musical's producers, P3 Productions (Ben Holtzman, Sammy Lopez, and Fiona Howe Rudin), in a statement.
"We are deeply grateful to the extraordinary creative team bringing this production to life, and especially to Angelica for courageously sharing her family’s story, brought to the stage alongside Ross’ magnificent score.”
Additional cast and creative team members have yet to be announced.
Photo credit: Liisi LaFontaine and Solea Pfeiffer. (Photo by Marc J. Franklin)
Frequently asked questions
How do you book tickets for Wanted?
Book tickets for Wanted on New York Theatre Guide.
What is Wanted about?
Wanted is a musical based on the true story of the Clarke sisters who endeavored to clear their mother's sharecropper debt and buy back her home in 1893 Texas.
What are the songs in Wanted?
The music was celebrated as a "powerhouse score" (New York Times), so audiences can expect thrilling numbers that show off the leading ladies' vocals.
Who directs Wanted?
Obie winner and Tony nominee Stevie Walker-Webb directs.
Who wrote Wanted?
Angelica Chéri, who is a descendant of the Clarke sisters, wrote the book and lyrics, and Ross Baum wrote the music.
Is Wanted good?
Yes: the show was acclaimed during its Paper Mill Playhouse run in New Jersey, earning a Critic's Pick.
Is Wanted appropriate for kids?
This musical consists of mature themes, and audiences must be four and older to come to Broadway theatres.
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