Tom Hanks to Co-Write and Star in This World of Tomorrow at Off-Broadway’s The Shed
Off-Broadway enthusiasts are in for an exciting treat! The acclaimed Tom Hanks is set to make waves in the theater world with the world premiere of his new play, This World of Tomorrow, which opens at The Shed’s Griffin Theater on October 30 and runs through December 21. This riveting production is co-written by Hanks and James Glossman and directed by the Tony Award-winning Kenny Leon.
The Storyline: A Journey Through Time
At the heart of This World of Tomorrow is a tale that blends science fiction with a love story. Hanks plays Bert Allenberry, a time-traveling scientist who ventures back to the 1939 World’s Fair in Queens, New York, in search of true love. This narrative draws inspiration from Hanks’ collection of short stories published in 2017, which showcase his adept storytelling skills beyond the silver screen.
Hanks describes the play’s exploration of "the themes of love and yearning" and how they resonate with today’s struggles, making the setting of The Shed—a modern marvel in itself—an ideal backdrop for this poignant tale.
Kenny Leon: The Visionary Director
Kenny Leon is no stranger to the theater scene; his direction has graced numerous successful productions. He expresses excitement about collaborating with Hanks on this new adventure, emphasizing the play’s ability to explore the "limitless power of love" and the unique collisions between past and present generations. Leon believes there’s a blend of humor and depth in the story that will resonate with audiences, making it a compelling experience in the Griffin Theater.
Hanks’ Return to the Stage
For fans of Hanks, this production marks a significant return. He is widely celebrated for his roles in classics like Forrest Gump, Apollo 13, and Sleepless in Seattle, establishing himself as one of the most cherished actors of his generation. Hanks last appeared on stage in 2013’s Lucky Guy, for which he won a Tony Award. His portrayal of Falstaff in the 2018 production of Henry IV in Los Angeles was his last theatrical performance, making This World of Tomorrow his first New York stage appearance in over a decade.
Ticket Information and Sales
Excitement is already buzzing around this production, with tickets set to go on sale to Shed members on July 15 and to the general public on July 24. Fans eager to witness this theatrical experience can visit TheShed.org for tickets and information.
Join the Anticipation
As the theater community eagerly awaits the arrival of This World of Tomorrow, there’s no doubt that Hanks’ first foray into playwriting will be met with enthusiasm and intrigue. It promises to be an unforgettable journey that explores the complexities of love and nostalgia, wrapped in Hanks’ evocative storytelling.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of Off-Broadway, this premiere is set to be a highlight of the upcoming season. Keep your eyes peeled for further announcements about the cast and other exciting developments surrounding this groundbreaking new work.
