Manhattan Theatre Club (MTC) has announced final casting for their Broadway transfer of “Prayer for the French Republic.” The previously announced play, written by Joshua Harmon, will open a limited run on Jan. 9, 2024 at Broadway’s Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. Previews will begin on Dec. 19.
The play will feature Ethan Haberfield in the role of Young Pierre, Richard Masur as Pierre, Nael Nacer as Charles and Daniel Oreskes as Adolphe.
Haberfield returns to Broadway following his debut as Michael Banks in “Mary Poppins.” Masur made his Broadway debut in 1973’s “The Changing Room.” More recently, he appeared on the Rialto in “Lucky Guy” and “Democracy.” “Prayer for the French Republic” marks the Broadway debut of Nacer, who recently appeared Off-Broadway in “The Orchard” at the Baryshnikov Arts Center. He has previously appeared in a regional production of Harmon’s “Prayer.” Oreskes last appeared on Broadway as Doc in the 2020 revival of “West Side Story.” His other Main Stem credits include “Oslo,” “The Miracle Worker” and “Billy Elliot: The Musical.”
They round out a previously announced cast of Betsy Aidem as Marcelle, Francis Benhamou as Elodie, Ari Brand as Lucien, Anthony Edwards as Patrick, Molly Ranson as Molly, Nancy Robinette as Irma and Aria Shahghasemi as Daniel. Casting is by Caparelliotis Casting/Kelly Gillespie.
Directed by Tony Award winner David Cromer, the play had its world premiere Off-Broadway in 2022 at MTC’s City Center Stage I. Aidem, Benhamou, Brand, Ranson and Robinette appeared in the Off-Broadway mounting in their respective roles.
“Prayer for the French Republic” follows multiple generations of the same Jewish family living in Paris. Despite the difference in decades, they confront anti-Semitism and question their safety in a city they call home.
The play’s creative team includes scenic designer Takeshi Kata, costume designer Sarah Laux, lighting designer Amith Chandrashaker, hair and makeup designer J. Jared Janas and Tony-nominated sound designer Daniel Kluger, the latter of whom will also provide original music. Gigi Buffington will serve as vocal coach and Richard Hodge will serve as production stage manager.
“Prayer for the French Republic” is being produced on Broadway by Manhattan Theatre Club under the leadership of Lynne Meadow, in her 50th year as artistic director, and Chris Jennings, in his inaugural season as executive director.
