Mambo Kings Musical to Start on B'way in July 2005 After San Fran Tryout

The musical version of The Mambo Kings, originally aiming for a spring Broadway bow, will now hit the Great White Way in summer 2005. It is now scheduled to begin New York performances on July 18 in preparation for an August 18 opening, according to Variety. As Ken Mandelbaum reported on November 15, the show is likely to occupy the Broadway Theatre, currently home to Bombay Dreams.

The story is based on Oscar Hijuelos' novel The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love, which was made into a 1992 film featuring Armand Assante, Antonio Banderas and Cathy Moriarty. Set in 1949, the plot centers on the Castillo brothers, who work by day and by night become stars of the dance halls, where their orchestra plays the pulsing music that earns them the title of the Mambo Kings.

The musical version features lyrics and direction by Arne Glimcher who produced, directed and wrote lyrics for The Mambo Kings film and a book by Glimcher and Hijuelos. Music is by Carlos Franzetti, who worked with Glimcher on the film. Sergio Trujillo Peggy Sue Got Married provides the choreography.

A previous reading of The Mambo Kings featured Anthony Crivello, Ivan Hernandez, Leah Hocking, Cote de Pablo, Natascia Diaz, Michael Goldstrom, Priscilla Lopez and Alton White.

Before it hits Broadway, The Mambo Kings will tryout at San Francisco's Golden Gate Theatre from May 24 through June 19.