BY MELISSA RUGGIERI/AJC Music Scene
The Kenny Leon-directed revival of "Children of a Lesser God" will play its final Broadway performance on May 27.
The drama, based on the 1979 play by Mark Medoff, began previews on March 22 and officially opened April 11 at Studio 54. At its closing, the production will have played 23 preview performances and 54 regular performances.
Producer Hal Luftig praised the work of Atlanta-based Leon, as well as the cast that includes Joshua Jackson in his first Broadway role and the theatrical debut of Lauren Ridloff, who is nominated for a Tony Award for best actress in a play for her role as deaf student Sarah Norman.
“I’m very proud of the work Kenny Leon, our remarkable cast, and creative team have done to bring this beautiful production to life,” Luftig said in a statement. “Mark Medoff’s beautiful play has once again shown audiences the power of open and honest communication. In a world where we too often talk over each other and struggle to be heard there is immense power when you open your mind and start listening.”
The show received middling reviews from critics and endured soft box office sales. According to BroadwayWorld.com, "Children of a Lesser God" grossed $297,762 last week, about 30 percent of its potential.
But the production garnered praise for being the most accessible play in Broadway history. Every performance features supertitles incorporated into the show’s scenic design, and closed captioning is available through a special app. As well, American Sign Language interpreters are present at select performances.
Tickets for the drama are currently on sale through its closing date at www.telecharge.com, by calling 212-239-6200 or, if you're in the neighborhood, at the theater box office.
Last summer, the Leon-helmed version of the project debuted at the Berkshire Theatre Group in Massachusetts.
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