The long-gestating stage adaptation of The Princess Bride is inching further away from "inconceivable."
Disney Theatrical Productions has confirmed that a new musical based on the late William Goldman's 1973 novel and subsequent 1987 film is in development from a trio of writers currently lighting up Broadway. The Band's Visit Tony Award winner David Yazbek (Broadway's upcoming Tootsie) will pen the score, with Tony winner Bob Martin (The Prom, The Drowsy Chaperone) and Rick Elice (The Cher Show, Jersey Boys) collaborating on the book.
No word yet on a production timeline or additional creative team members.
This is far from the first time the title has flirted with the stage. Goldman had initially teamed up with The Light in the Piazza's Adam Guettel on an adaptation, though the two parted ways in 2007. Rob Reiner, who directed the movie, subsequently approached a host of songwriters from theatre and beyond. Disney Theatrical announced its continued commitment to bringing the story to life, in collaboration with Walt Disney Studios' Alan Horn, in 2013.
The romantic fantasy follows the exploits of Westley, a farmer who—alongside a cast of eccentric companions—sets out to rescue his beloved Princess Buttercup from the brash prince she is pushed to wed. The 1987 film became a cult favorite, with performances from Cary Elwes, Mandy Patinkin, Wallace Shawn, and Robin Wright canonized and often-quoted by comedy aficionados.Disney is also at work on a stage adaptation of the animated movie Hercules, in a collaboration with the Public Theater. The musical will run August 31 through September 8 at the Public's Delcaorte Theater in Central Park.
