Tom Hanks, beloved actor and two-time Oscar winner, is set to make a remarkable return to live theatre with a new play he co-wrote called “This World of Tomorrow”. The Off-Broadway production is scheduled to premiere on October 30 at The Shed in New York City, running for eight weeks until December 21. This unique play, blending romance, history, and science fiction, follows the journey of a lonely scientist from the future who travels back in time to the 1939 World’s Fair in Queens in search of love. Hanks will not only star in the play but also co-wrote it along with James Glossman, with whom he collaborated previously on the stage production “Safe Home”. The play is developed based on stories from Hanks’s 2017 book “Uncommon Type”.
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The 550-seat theatre at The Shed will host the performances, with director Kenny Leon, a Tony award winner, leading the production. Hanks expressed his excitement about the themes explored in the play, stating, “To explore the themes of love and yearning, and the struggles of today as we carry with us the eternal memories of the past, in such a place as The Shed, strikes me as a one-of-a-kind experience not unlike the World’s Fair of 1939.” This marks a significant return to the stage for Hanks, as his last stage performance was in 2013 in the Broadway drama “Lucky Guy”, which earned him a Tony Award nomination.
The collaboration between Hanks and Glossman on “This World of Tomorrow” is a testament to their creative partnership and commitment to storytelling. The play’s narrative delves into the timeless themes of love, connection, and the echoes of past generations, all set against the backdrop of the historical 1939 World’s Fair. Director Kenny Leon shared his eagerness to work with Tom Hanks on this time-travelling adventure, emphasizing the exploration of the profound power of love and the lengths one would go to for it. The upcoming production promises to bring a captivating story to life on stage, blending humor and authenticity in a truly engaging manner.
The decision to debut “This World of Tomorrow” at The Shed reflects the venue’s commitment to showcasing diverse and compelling performances. The play adds to an already exciting season lineup at The Shed, alongside immersive experiences like “Viola’s Room” and a revival of “The Brothers Size”. The anticipation for Hanks’s return to the stage has been met with enthusiasm from both fans and industry insiders, with tickets for the production set to go on sale on July 24. Shed member presale will begin on July 15, offering early access to eager theatregoers keen to witness Tom Hanks’s latest theatrical venture.
Tom Hanks’s involvement in “This World of Tomorrow” highlights his versatility and enduring passion for storytelling across different mediums. As a celebrated actor with a diverse body of work spanning decades, Hanks continues to captivate audiences with his talent and dedication to his craft. The play’s exploration of love, time travel, and human connection sets the stage for a thought-provoking and engaging theatrical experience that is sure to resonate with audiences. With Hanks at the helm, supported by a talented cast and creative team, “This World of Tomorrow” promises to be a memorable addition to the Off-Broadway theatre scene, offering a unique blend of entertainment, emotion, and timeless storytelling.
In conclusion, Tom Hanks’s upcoming venture into live theatre with “This World of Tomorrow” signifies a significant moment in his illustrious career, marking a return to the stage that is bound to excite fans and theatre enthusiasts alike. The play’s intriguing premise, creative team, and prestigious venue all contribute to the anticipation surrounding this production, underscoring Hanks’s enduring impact on the entertainment industry. As the countdown begins towards the premiere in October, audiences can look forward to experiencing a captivating blend of romance, history, and science fiction brought to life by one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors.