From Los Angeles to New York to London, it’s been a long road to Broadway but Lyle Kessler’s dark comedy “Orphans” will arrive on the Great White Way in January, 2009. Film star Al Pacino has been courted for the role of Harold, a businessman who is kidnapped by two brothers, Treat and Phillip. Parentless, they have raised themselves and been supported by the thievery of Treat. While he dominates his innocent child-like brother, it is their captive, Harold, who eventually takes the helm and steers their lives. According to Broadway.com it is thought that “Orphans” will play at Broadway’s Barrymore Theatre.
“Orphans” is Kessler’s best known work, written in 1983. His earlier work includes “The Watering Place” in 1969, “Possessions” in 1978.
Pacino, a Tony Award winner, is no stranger to the stage, having starred on Broadway and in lesser venues several times. According to published reports, Pacino was involved in a workshop version of “Orphans” in Los Angeles in 2005.
The show will be produced by Frederick Zollo, Jeffrey Sine and Bill Kenwright. David Esbjornson will direct.
