Idol Star Guarini Set for Vassar's Vibrations

American Idol runner-up Justin Guarini will headline The Beach Boys musical Good Vibrations at Vassar's Powerhouse Theater from July 29 through August 1. Also featured in the cast will be Titus Burgess, Heath Calvert, Tom Deckman, Elizabeth Fye, Geoffrey Hemingway, David Larsen, Julie Martell Gypsy, Tyler Maynard Mamma Mia!, Megan McGinnis Beauty and the Beast, Nina Negri, Julie Reiber the upcoming Brooklyn, David Resier, Jose Restrepo, Jonathan Richard Sandler, Krysta Rodriguez, Allison Spratt, Emily Toress and Haneefah Wood Rent.

Guarini was an aspiring stage actor when he chose American Idol over a part in The Lion King. During the first season of American Idol, he became a popular star, even though he eventually lost the big prize to Kelly Clarkson. After the competition was over, he was quickly signed to RCA records and after a tour with Clarkson and the filming of their movie From Justin to Kelly began recording his self-titled debut album, which came out on June 10, 2003. From Justin to Kelly was released in theaters 10 days later. Guarini was reportedly dropped from RCA Records last winter.

Good Vibrations follows the romantic misadventures of a group of small-town teenagers on a life-changing odyssey to the promised land: the beaches of Southern California. It features music by Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys with a book by Richard Dresser.

Good Vibrations, directed by John Carrafa, is rumored to be seeking a Broadway bow either later this season or during the 2005-2006 season.