Band-frontman-turned-Broadway-writer Larry Kirwan has a new musical in development, “Iraqi Rose.” An industry reading, directed by Joe Barros, is set for Jan. 27.
Kirwan, who conceived and co-wrote “Paradise Square” (and earned a Tony nomination for the musical’s book), is the leader of Irish political rock band Black 47. He and Barros previously collaborated on “Hard Times,” the musical on which “Paradise Square” was based.
The cast of the reading will feature Chilina Kennedy, Van Hughes, Cory Jeacoma, Manu Narayan, Sharone Sayegh, A.J. Shively and others.
Mark Fifer will provide music direction. Jeffrey Chrzczon will serve as general manager.
Set during the Iraq War and the following years, “Iraqi Rose” focuses on an incident that took place in Baghdad in 2006 and its repercussions, years later, on a former soldier who runs for Congress. The musical is inspired by letters Kirwan and his Black 47 bandmates received from fans who served in the war.
The reading is presented by Kirwan, Chuck Braverman and Peter Ledonne in association with Irish Arts Center.
