Jeremy Shamos Joins the Broadway Cast of Elling

Jeremy Shamos will join previously announced stars Brendan Fraser, Denis O'Hare, Richard Easton and Jennifer Coolidge in the upcoming Broadway production of Elling. Shamos will play Frank, an inquisitive social worker at the mental hospital where the title character resides. Simon Bent’s adaptation of Ingvar Ambjornsen's Norwegian novels and Peter Naess' 2001 film will begin performances on November 2 at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre. The production, directed by Tony winner Doug Hughes, opens on November 21.

The show will also feature set design by Scott Pask, lighting by Kenneth Posner, costumes by Catherine Zuber and sound design by David Van Tieghem.

Shamos' Broadway work includes The Rivals and Reckless. His many other theater credits include Clybourne Park, Animals Out of Paper, Hunting and Gathering, 100 Saints You Should Know, Hamlet, Engaged, The Alchemist and Gutenberg! The Musical!

In Elling O’Hare plays the title character, who befriends Kjell (Fraser) when both are in a mental hospital. Elling suffers from acute anxiety after his mother’s death, while Fraser is a childlike 40-year-old eager to lose his virginity. The two become roommates and face the challenge of establishing a normal life when released from the institution.

The production is being produced on Broadway by Howard Panter for Ambassador Theatre Group, Bob Bartner, Bill Kenwright, John O’Boyle, Deborah Taylor, Burnt Umber, Bill Ballard/David Mirvish, Finola Dwyer, David Parfitt, Ronnie Planalp and Michael David in association with Bob Boyett.