A new musical about the life and career of singer Frank Sinatra is currently in the works. The project is being developed by Universal Music Group in association with Tina Sinatra (Frank Sinatra’s daughter) and Frank Sinatra Enterprises.
Titled “Sinatra The Musical,” the show is being written by Joe DiPietro, with Kathleen Marshall directing and choreographing (the two previously collaborated on “Living on Love” and the Tony-nominated “Nice Work If You Can Get It”). DiPietro was last represented on Broadway as book writer of “Diana, The Musical”; he won a pair of Tonys as book writer and lyricist of “Memphis.”
Marshall most recently treaded the boards as director and choreographer of the a cappella musical “In Transit.” Her other select Broadway credits include directing and choreographing the 2011 revival of “Anything Goes,” a 2006 mounting of “The Pajama Game” and the 2003 staging of “Wonderful Town” — each of which garnered her Tonys for Best Choreography.
Sinatra himself only performed on a Broadway stage for the 1975 concert special “Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Count Basie.” Notably, Sinatra’s vocals were heard on Broadway in Twyla Tharp’s “Come Fly Away.” This spring, the new musical “New York, New York,” adapted from the 1977 film, will also feature the titular song made famous by Sinatra.
According to press materials, the story of “Sinatra The Musical” begins on New Year’s Eve 1942 as a 27-year-old Frank Sinatra readies himself to step on the stage of the famed Paramount Theatre. The musical follows his ascendency to fame, the ups and downs of his marriage to Nancy, his affair with Ava Gardner, blows to his career and his determination for a comeback.
Of the musical, Tina Sinatra said in a statement, “I’m excited to work with Universal Music Theatrical on this stage production that we believe will bring audiences new perspectives and insights into my father’s renowned music and his enduring legacy.”
Michele Anthony, Bruce Resnikoff and Scott Landis will serve as producers for Universal Music Group Theatrical, with Tina Sinatra and Charles Pignone producing on behalf of Frank Sinatra Enterprises.
