Andrew Rannells and Katie Brayben are set to reprise their roles in the musical Tammy Faye on Broadway this fall. The production, featuring music by Elton John, will grace the newly renovated Palace Theater, commencing on Oct. 19, with an official opening night scheduled for Nov. 14. This marks the first full production announced for the refurbished theater, which underwent closure in 2018 for renovations. The venue has since been elevated 30 feet in the air and revamped with a fresh lobby, marquee, and backstage area.
Ben Platt is slated to perform a three-week concert at the theater from May 28 through June 15. Brayben, who clinched an Olivier Award for her portrayal of televangelist Tammy Faye in London, has also been recognized with an Olivier for her role in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Her stage credits include appearances in Girl From the North Country and King Charles III on the West End, among other notable roles.
Rannells, renowned for his lead role in The Book of Mormon and recent performance in Gutenberg! The Musical! on Broadway, will portray Jim Bakker, Faye’s husband and onscreen co-star. Rannells originated this role at London’s Almeida Theatre in Fall 2022. The musical, in addition to featuring music by Elton John, boasts lyrics by Scissor Sisters’ Jake Shears and a book by James Graham, the playwright behind Ink, a production chronicling the ascent of Rupert Murdoch.
Rupert Goold, the director of Ink and King Charles III, will helm the production. John’s Rocket Stage, Sally Greene’s Greene Light Stage, and theater owner James L. Nederlander are the lead producers of the musical.