Musical Version of The Remains of the Day On Tap

Novelist Kazuo Ishiguro has given his blessing to the development of a musical version of his most famous work, The Remains of the Day. James Ivory’s 1993 movie adaptation of the novel received eight Academy Award nominations.

“It struck me as an intriguing idea," Ishiguro told The Telegraph of London. “I am a big believer in musicals and I see no reason why my novel shouldn't make a good one. Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music shows you can set an unlikely story to music.”

According to his personal website, British composer Alex Loveless presented his ideas to Ishiguro and was granted rights to develop the property, which he hopes to bring to the stage in 2010. The novelist was quoted as saying, “Adapting this story as a musical, I could see, might have the advantage of highlighting its comedic and surreal aspects. It’s an adventurous approach and I’m keen to support it.” Loveless’ composing credits include To Death and Glory, Sensation and a 2008 version of Dracula. His brother, Chris Loveless, will direct, and the Telegraph lists Simon James Collier as producer.

The Remains of the Day centers on Stevens, longtime butler at Darlington Hall, his relationship with the American gentleman who buys the estate in the 1950s, and his memories of working with a buttoned-up housekeeper named Miss Kenton before World War II. The movie starred Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson and Christopher Reeve.