An exciting new musical adaptation of the beloved novel and film, Practical Magic, is in the works, bringing the enchanting story to life on stage. The project is a collaboration between renowned author Alice Hoffman, Grammy Award-winning musicians Norah Jones and Gregg Wattenberg, and acclaimed director Maria Friedman. With a talented team behind it, this musical promises to captivate audiences and transport them to the magical world of the Owens family.
The musical will feature a score composed by the dynamic duo of Jones and Wattenberg, who have already made their mark in the music industry. Wattenberg's impressive list of credits includes co-writing and producing chart-topping hits like 'Superman (It's Not Easy)' and 'Hey, Soul Sister'. The book for the musical is being penned by Peter Duchan, known for his work on the 2013 musical 'Dogfight'. Hoffman, the author of the original novel, is thrilled to bring her magical story to the stage, stating that the music is the heart and soul of Practical Magic.
The story centers around the Owens sisters, Sally and Gillian, who, after losing their parents at a young age, are raised by their eccentric aunts in a small Massachusetts town. Haunted by an ancestral curse, they strive to break free from the shadows of their past. As the sisters' paths diverge, they encounter love, loss, and long-buried secrets that bring them back together. The musical will explore themes of family legacy, love, and the power of overcoming adversity.
The film adaptation of Practical Magic, released in 1998, featured a stellar cast, including Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, and Dianne Wiest. A sequel, directed by Susanne Bier, is set to premiere in September 2025, reuniting Bullock and Kidman. The musical will be produced by Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures, with Mark Kaufman serving as a creative consultant. The project marks a significant step for Warner Bros. in the world of stage musicals, as they prepare to bring adaptations of 'Crazy Rich Asians' and 'The Lost Boys' to Broadway.
While casting and production details are yet to be announced, the anticipation for this musical is already building. Practical Magic is poised to become a theatrical masterpiece, blending captivating storytelling, memorable music, and a powerful message about love and overcoming one's past. Get ready for a magical journey that will leave you spellbound!
