Booth! an exciting new musical, will have its New York premiere at the Skirball Center for the Performing Arts at New York University from June 2 through June 7. An examination of the life of 19th Century maverick actor Edwin Booth, Booth! features music by noted composer Barbara Harbach and lyrics by Jonathan Yordy, with book and direction by Niyi Coker, Jr. James Richards conducts. The Cast includes Jan Prokop, Keith Boyer, Amanda Boyer, Jessica Marsco and Kyle Minshew.
As told from the perspective of his daughter, Edwina, Booth! chronicles the tortured existechronicles the tortured existence of the brilliant American actor Edwin Booth. Undoubtedly, the infamous assassination of Abraham Lincoln by his brother, John Wilkes, plays a major part in shaping and influencing Edwina’s exploration of the life of her father. Booth! is a musical voyage into the sometimes disturbing relationships that defined Edwin as son, husband, father, brother and actor.
Booth!, which had its world premiere in 2007 at the University of Missouri – St. Louis was selected by the NYU Theatre Department from among 100 other nominees nationwide to make its New York premiere. The New York production is presented by the University of Missouri-St. Louis in association with NYU Africana Program. As a composer, Barbara Harbach has a large catalog of works, including symphonies, works for chamber ensemble, string orchestra, organ, harpsichord, musicals, choral anthems, film scores, modern ballets, and many arrangements for brass and organ of various Baroque works.