‘Crazy Rich Asians’ Director Jon M. Chu Developing Broadway Musical Adaptation
The 'Crazy Rich Asians' musical adaptation is in the works!
The musical is set to feature a vibrant soundtrack crafted by a talented trio, including composer Helen Park from the hit production 'KPOP,' with lyrics penned by Amanda Green and Tat Tong.
The transition of 'Crazy Rich Asians' to the theatrical stage marks its latest evolution.
Producers revealed plans on Wednesday for the creation of a new musical destined for Broadway, drawing inspiration from Kevin Kwan's globally renowned trilogy of novels and its celebrated cinematic adaptation released in 2018.
While key details such as casting, the complete creative team, and performance dates remain undisclosed, the musical will be under the direction of Jon M. Chu, the filmmaker behind the 'Crazy Rich Asians' blockbuster. Chu's expertise extends to musicals, having directed screen adaptations of 'In the Heights' and the upcoming two-part presentation of 'Wicked.' This venture will mark Chu's inaugural foray into directing for Broadway.
Taking charge of the musical's narrative framework is Leah Nanako Winkler, an accomplished playwright hailing from Kamakura, Japan, and Lexington, Kentucky. Currently serving as a co-executive producer and writer for CBS' 'Elsbeth,' Winkler, 33, boasts a diverse portfolio including contributions to popular series such as 'Ramy,' 'Love Life,' and 'Schmigadoon!'
The musical's score boasts a trio of talented creators. Helen Park, acclaimed for her Tony Award-nominated work on 'KPOP,' will compose the music. Joining her, Amanda Green, a Tony-nominated lyricist and composer, renowned for hits including 'Hands on a Hardbody' and 'Bring It On,' will craft the lyrics. Collaborating with Green is Tat Tong, a Singaporean record producer and songwriter, known for his work with The Swaggernautz and a discography featuring over 20 No. 1 hits and 60 Top 20 hits globally.
Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures is driving the adaptation of 'Crazy Rich Asians' for the stage.
As the studio behind the film adaptation, Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures has a track record of successful transitions from screen to stage, with projects like 'Beetlejuice' and 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' under their belt, alongside ongoing adaptations such as 'Dave' and 'A Star Is Born.'
'Crazy Rich Asians,' which made it's box office debut in 2018, is an American romantic comedy-drama film based on the 2013 novel of the same title by Kevin Kwan. The film starred Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Gemma Chan, Lisa Lu, Awkwafina, Ken Jeong, and Michelle Yeoh. The film, which received critical acclaim, follows Rachel, a Chinese-American professor who travels to Singapore with her boyfriend. Rachel (Constance Wu) is shocked to discover that her boyfriend's family is one of the richest families in Singapore.
The 'Critics' Choice Awards' winner for Best Comedy grossed over $238 million on a $30 million budget, making it the highest-grossing romantic comedy of the 2010s.
