With its limited run about to begin a brief two-week extension, producers of Broadway’s “The Piano Lesson” have announced casting changes.
Trai Byers will play his final performance as Avery on Jan. 15. His understudy, Charles Browning, will assume the role for the final two weeks of performances.
Shirine Babb, an understudy for the roles of Berniece and Grace, will also depart. Ros Coleman will join the company as an understudy.
The play stars Samuel L. Jackson, John David Washington and Danielle Brooks. The cast also includes Nadia Daniel, Peter Jay Fernandez, Ray Fisher, Sharina Martin, April Matthis, Warner J. Miller, Doron JePaul Mitchell, Michael Potts, Kim Sullivan and Jurnee Elizabeth Swan.
“The Piano Lesson” began previews at the Barrymore Theatre on Sept. 19 and opened on Oct. 13. The revival of the August Wilson-penned play will now close on Jan. 29, 2023, instead of the previously announced Jan. 15. The production had been announced to run for 16 weeks only.
The production remains the highest-grossing revival of a play this season.
Directed by LaTanya Richardson Jackson, the creative team includes scenic designer Beowolf Boritt, costume designer Toni-Leslie James, lighting designer Japhy Weideman, sound designer Scott Lehrer, wig designer Cookie Jordan, projection designer Jeff Sugg, music director Alvin Hough Jr. and choreographer Otis Sallid. Casting is by Calleri, Jensen, Davis. General Management is by Foresight Theatrical.
“The Piano Lesson” is produced on Broadway by Brian Anthony Moreland, Sonia Friedman, Tom Kirdahy, Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker.
