Neil Patrick Harris Headlines Star-Studded Broadway Comeback in 'Damn Yankees' Revival

A highly anticipated revival of the classic American musical “Damn Yankees” is set to open on Broadway next spring, marking its return after more than three decades. This updated production, which follows a successful run at D.C.’s Arena Stage last fall, promises a fresh take on the beloved story, moving its 1950s-set narrative into the 21st century. The creative team behind this “revisal” includes a book by Will Power and Dough Wright, additional lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and direction and choreography by Sergio Trujillo.

The original “Damn Yankees” debuted on Broadway in 1955, starring Robert Shafer, Gwen Verdon, Ray Walston, and Stephen Douglass. It was a critical success, winning seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Richard Adler and Jerry Ross were responsible for the music and lyrics, while George Abbott and Douglass Wallop penned the book. The show's last Broadway revival was in 1993, featuring Jarrod Emick, Bebe Neuwirth, and Victor Garber.

Director Sergio Trujillo expressed his vision for the revival, stating that he wasn’t interested in merely bringing it back. Instead, this “revisal” aims to preserve the heart, wit, and soaring score that audiences adore, while offering a fresh perspective to bring joy back into the theater. Trujillo highlighted “Damn Yankees” as a celebration of America, hoping audiences will see themselves in the story and experience the magic that only a great American musical can deliver.

The updated logline places the story in the early 2000s, with diehard baseball fan Joe Boyd dreaming of his beloved Baltimore Orioles returning to glory. When a charming stranger and a captivating accomplice offer an irresistible deal, Joe makes a Faustian bargain for his team’s success, with an inevitable catch. Tony Award-winner Neil Patrick Harris will star as the devilish Applegate, Julianne Hough makes her Broadway debut as Joe’s wife Lola, and Austin Scott takes on the role of Young Joe. The remainder of the cast is yet to be announced.

Neil Patrick Harris, known for his Tony-winning performance in the 2014 revival of “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” and multiple stints as Tony Awards host, shared his excitement at a press conference at Yankee Stadium. He described starring in a big Broadway musical with an ensemble and dance numbers as a “bucket list” item. Harris also noted the enjoyment of playing a devilish character, aiming for Applegate to be as alluring and manipulative as possible.

A groundbreaking aspect of this production is the partnership with Major League Baseball and its production label, MLB Studios – a first for Broadway. Lead producer Haley Swindal, alongside Lia Vollack, emphasized the synergy between baseball and Broadway, describing them both as mythology that delivers thrilling live entertainment. Swindal, the granddaughter of legendary New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, highlighted her family's historical connection to Broadway; Steinbrenner himself was a Broadway producer who invested in several productions, including Tony winners “Applause” and “Seesaw.”

Noah Garden, MLB’s deputy commissioner of business and media, expressed the league’s enthusiasm for the partnership. He stressed the importance of baseball resonating beyond the diamond and into various cultural areas. Garden believes that both baseball and Broadway fans appreciate high drama, stakes, and the anticipation of unforgettable live experiences, making “Damn Yankees” a perfect celebration of this shared spirit.

“Damn Yankees” will play at the Marquis Theatre, with previews scheduled to begin on March 24, leading up to opening night on April 20.