Andrew Lloyd Webber is back with something magical up his sleeve—literally.
The renowned composer of Phantom of the Opera and Evita has just revealed his latest project, a musical called The Illusionist, which is set to hit both the West End and Broadway.
Teaming up with Sunset Boulevard director Jamie Lloyd, Webber describes the show as a “magical romance” with an “operatic” score.
Oscar-winning screenwriter Chris Terrio, known for Argo, has penned the book, and British songwriter Bruno Major is on board for additional musical input.
According to Michael Harrison, Webber’s producing partner, there’s still a lot of magic left to craft, including securing someone to handle the show’s illusions.
And if you’re wondering, yes, the show draws some inspiration from the 2006 film The Illusionist starring Edward Norton.
But Webber is quick to clarify: “We’re not hugely based on the movie. We’ve taken the idea and developed it into something entirely different.”
Webber and Terrio have even expanded the role of Sophie, the love interest from the film. “She’s the catalyst of everything in the second act,” Webber explains.
Set in Vienna around 1900, The Illusionist explores the cultural and historical context of the time. While the waltzes of Johann Strauss played in grand ballrooms, figures like Sigmund Freud and Arnold Schönberg were revolutionising psychology and music.
Webber is keen to explore how “this melting pot” of innovation influenced society—right before the looming collapse of the empire.
For now, watch this space for more!
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