NEW YORK (WABC) – In 1983, Huey Lewis and the News introduced “The Heart of Rock and Roll.”
Fast forward forty years, and the beat goes on, this time resonating on Broadway.
The iconic tunes of the Grammy-winning artist serve as the foundation for a brand-new musical comedy.
Reflecting on the journey, Joelle Garguilo, Eyewitness News Entertainment Reporter, inquired, “Huey Lewis, how would you describe this experience, considering its longevity?”
Lewis responded, “It’s truly remarkable. The road has been quite a ride. It’s been a challenging nine-year endeavor to bring this show to Broadway. We are still in disbelief that it has come to fruition. However, the real joy lies in collaborating with the incredibly talented individuals – the cast and musicians here on Broadway. It has been an absolute thrill.”
Garguilo noted, “As a native New Yorker, born in Manhattan, how does it feel to have your musical repertoire at the core of a Broadway production?”
Lewis expressed, “It’s truly astounding. It’s not something I had envisioned or aimed for, but the experience has been immensely rewarding. Exploring the script and songs continuously reveals new dimensions. The songs have evolved in unexpected ways.”
Reflecting on this evolution, Lewis shared, “It’s immensely gratifying to witness the transformation of the songs, each narrating a unique tale. I take great pride in my songs; they almost feel like my own children.”
Featuring nearly two dozen of his chart-topping hits, “The Heart of Rock and Roll” narrates the story of a group of hopeful youngsters given a second chance to pursue their aspirations – a theme deeply resonant with Lewis following his profound hearing loss.
Garguilo empathetically inquired, “The past couple of years must have been incredibly challenging for you. Given that performing is integral to you as a musician, how has Broadway impacted you?”
Lewis reflected, “Broadway has been a tremendous source of solace. It provides me with purpose and creativity, serving as a distraction from my hearing impairment.”
When asked about the essence of the show, Lewis emphasized, “At its core, the show embodies love. It is a profound love story interwoven with wit, intelligence, and humor. Ultimately, it encapsulates the essence of love, which is fundamental in our world. While our show may not alter your life, it promises to make your evening memorable.”
Previews are set to commence on Friday, March 29, 2024, with the grand opening scheduled for Monday, April 22, 2024.
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