Esparza to take a “Leap of Faith” on Broadway
Raul Esparza confirmed today that he is beginning a workshop for a new Broadway musical, Leap of Faith, which will open some time next year. The show is based on the 1992 Steve Martin movie about a traveling evangelist, and will be directed by Taylor Hackford. We have no doubt Esparza has the goods — the looks, voice, acting chops and star charisma. His extraordinary talent is well known throughout the Broadway community, but we believe this star vehicle will serve to enhance this beyond the Great White Way. After all, The Boy from Oz certainly extended Hugh Jackman’s popularity in the entertainment world. Esparza also said that he is slated to shoot more episodes of ABC’s Pushing Daisies in June.
Broadway Undercover attended the opening of Esparza’s latest project, The Homecoming, on December 16, and today, attended its final (scheduled) performance. We happily joined in the standing ovation as the curtain came down on this extraordinarly well-received 40th anniversary revival of the Harold Pinter play. The cast, including Esparza, Ian McShane, Eve Best, Michael McKean, James Frain and Gareth Saxe, was in rare form treating the audience to some extra special touches that generated extra special response. The Cort Theatre will next house the upcoming production of The 39 Steps with performances beginning on April 29.