Leslie Bricusse Departs Creative Team of Sleepless in Seattle

Composer/lyricist Leslie Bricusse has parted ways with the previously announced and still-in-development musical version of Sleepless in Seattle, according to Variety. Book writer Jeff Arch, who co-wrote the hit 1993 romantic comedy starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, and director Joel Zwick (My Big Fat Greek Wedding) remained attached to the project.

“We’re looking for a bit of a more contemporary sound,” said producer David Shor, who had previously lauded the 18 songs already written by Bricusse. The veteran composer's Broadway credits include Jekyll & Hyde, Victor/Victoria and Stop the World – I Want to Get Off.

Variety reports that Arch’s book is complete, and Shor hopes to sign a new composing team soon. The March 2009 announcement of the show had estimated an opening in early 2010, which would presumably be delayed now that Bricusse has departed.