Tom Hanks, the renowned actor and two-time Oscar winner, has admitted to experiencing a momentary lapse in memory while performing in his latest venture, an Off-Broadway play titled “This World of Tomorrow,” which he co-wrote. The play, currently running at The Shed in New York City until December 21, stars Hanks alongside Kelli O’Hara and Ruben Santiago-Hudson.
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During an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Hanks candidly shared his experience of forgetting his lines during a preview performance of the play. He humorously remarked that since he was one of the writers, “they are gonna have a real hard time firing me” for the slip-up. The play delves into the story of a lonely scientist from the future who travels back in time to the 1939 World’s Fair in Queens in search of love.
Despite the light-hearted moment of forgetfulness, Hanks spoke about the unique challenges of both acting in and co-writing a stage production. He highlighted the differences between filmmaking, where directors have more flexibility, and stage performances, where the script is crucial. Hanks expressed the pressure of ensuring each word is delivered correctly, emphasizing the meticulous process of choosing the right dialogue for each scene.
“This World of Tomorrow” marks Tom Hanks’s return to the stage after his last Broadway appearance in 2013’s “Lucky Guy,” which earned him a Tony nomination. Co-writing the play with James Glossman, the actor delved into the complexities of crafting a story for the stage, where every word holds significance. The cast of the play, including Kerry Bishé, Kayli Carter, and Jay O. Sanders, captivates audiences with a tale of romance and time-travel.
The director, Kenny Leon, expressed excitement about working with Tom Hanks on this time-travelling adventure, praising the authenticity and humour infused into the play. The collaborative effort between Hanks, Glossman, and Shed has resulted in a production that explores the echoes of past generations and the enduring power of love. Tickets for “This World of Tomorrow” are currently on sale for theater enthusiasts seeking a captivating and thought-provoking experience.
With a seasoned cast and a storyline that blends romance and futuristic elements, “This World of Tomorrow” promises to engage audiences and transport them through time. Tom Hanks’s candid admission of forgetting his lines serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of live performances and the dedication required to deliver a compelling theatre experience. As the play continues its run at The Shed, theatre enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing Hanks’s masterful portrayal of Bert Allenberry in this innovative production.