The Verdict: Critics Review New Musical Daddy Long Legs | Playbill

Playbill Universe The Verdict: Critics Review New Musical Daddy Long Legs The new two-actor musical Daddy Long Legs — by Tony Award-nominated composer-lyricist Paul Gordon (Jane Eyre) and Tony-winning librettist-director John Caird (Les Misérables) — officially opened for an open-ended run at the Davenport Theatre Sept. 28. The Off-Broadway premiere began previews Sept. 10.
Megan McGinnis in Daddy Long Legs

The production stars Megan McGinnis (Les Misérables), who has been attached to the project since its 2009 debut, alongside Paul Alexander Nolan (Once, Jesus Christ Superstar).

The critics are filing their reviews, and Playbill.com is updating them as they come in. 

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DC Theatre Scene

New York Times Vulture

The show, produced by Ken Davenport (Kinky Boots) and Michael Jackowitz (How To Succeed in Business...), has toured regionally and received an industry reading in New York earlier last year. Caird, who also directs, reunites with Gordon following their earlier collaboration on the Tony-nominated Jane Eyre.

The musical is based on the 1912 novel by Jean Webster. Set in turn-of-the-century New England, it tells the story of Jerusha Abbott, the oldest orphan in the John Grier Home. A mysterious benefactor agrees to send her to college under the condition that she write him a letter once a month, and through this correspondence, she shares her experiences of discovering literature, adventure, love and self. Not knowing who her aid is, she dubs him "Daddy Long Legs."

"This story has all the makings of a great musical,” said director and book writer Caird in a statement. "Jean Webster’s novel was ahead of its time in telling a story of self-discovery for contemporary women. We hope to keep that spirit and raise the bar even further to bring this story to the stage."

First Pics! Megan McGinnis and Paul Alexander Nolan Make Mystery and Intrigue Sing in New Musical Daddy Long Legs

Daddy Long Legs premiered at California's Rubicon Theatre Company in 2009 and has had acclaimed productions throughout the United States as well as international productions in Canada, Tokyo and London's West End.

The New York production features scenic and costume design by Olivier Award winner and Tony Award nominee David Farley (Sunday in the Park With George), lighting design by Paul Toben (The Story Of My Life), sound design by Peter Fitzgerald and music direction, arrangements and orchestrations by Brad Haak (An American in Paris).

Producers also include Hunter Arnold, Ben Bailey, Caiola Productions and associate producer, Kayla Greenspan.

Tickets are available by visiting Telecharge or by calling (212) 239-6222. The Davenport Theatre is located at 354 45th St., New York.

 
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