Jason Alexander to Direct Pre-Broadway Stage Adaptation of The War of the Roses in Maine

Tony-winning stage-and-screen actor Jason Alexander has signed on to direct a new theatrical version of the dark comedy The War of the Roses this summer. The play will receive a production at Maine's Ogunquit Playhouse beginning on August 28, with hopes to move to Broadway thereafter.

Adapted for the stage by Emmy nominee Peter Tolan (Rescue Me) from Warren Adler's novel, The War of the Roses follows Oliver and Barbara Rose, a wealthy couple seemingly enjoying marital bliss, until the moment Barbara asks for a divorce. A funny and bitter battle ensues that sets new standards for how far a couple will go to get even.

Most known for his Emmy-nominated turn as George Costanza on Seinfeld, Alexander took home the 1989 Tony Award as Best Leading Actor in a Musical for his turn in Jerome Robbins' Broadway. His directing credits include Broadway Bound (which he appeared in on Broadway) at Los Angeles' Odyssey Theatre, The God of Hell at the Geffen Playhouse and Sunday in the Park with George for the Reprise program.

Also notable in the new Ogunquit season is a world premiere musical adaptation of Mr. Holland's Opus, based on the 1995 film. Tony winner B.D. Wong (M. Butterfly) will direct and provide book and lyrics for the new tuner, which will feature music by Tony nominee Wayne Barker (Peter and the Starcatcher). The production will kick off on August 1.

Casting for both Ogunquit productions will be announced at a later date.