**Amanda Seyfried Joins Lin-Manuel Miranda’s New Musical, “Octet”**
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Amanda Seyfried has expressed her excitement about rehearsing for the upcoming musical film “Octet,” directed by the renowned Lin-Manuel Miranda. The announcement about the project was made by Miranda earlier this month, outlining what fans can expect from this intriguing venture.
The two were seen together at Tiffany & Co.’s Blue Book gala on April 16, where Seyfried shared her enthusiasm in an interview with PEOPLE. “Some of the best moments of my life have just happened,” she remarked, referring to her recent experiences working on this production. Seyfried noted that while she was unsure of the specifics at first, the prospect of collaborating with Miranda and the opportunity to participate in a new musical was irresistible.
Miranda, known for his groundbreaking work on “Hamilton,” officially revealed that he had commenced rehearsals with Seyfried and several notable co-stars, including Rachel Zegler, Jonathan Groff, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Phillipa Soo, Tramell Tillman, and Paul-Jordan Jansen. Rehearsals for “Octet” began on April 14, with excitement building around the project since the initial announcement made on April 2.
Seyfried, who has showcased her musical talents in previous films such as “Mamma Mia!” and “Les Misérables,” enthusiastically shared her thoughts about the new venture. She stated, “I didn’t care what it was. I’m in,” highlighting her eagerness to work on a project directed by Miranda. The actress also mentioned her background as a singer, emphasising her deep love for music, particularly a cappella performances, which are central to “Octet.”
“Octet” is an adaptation of the musical that premiered Off-Broadway in 2019, which explores themes of digital dependence and communication in the modern age. The captivating premise revolves around eight individuals who gather in a church basement, disconnecting from their devices, and reflecting on their compulsions through the power of music. The show promises a blend of wit and emotion, presenting lyrical sophistication alongside beautiful harmonies.
Miranda praised the original musical, stating that he was captivated by its themes since attending the premiere production in late 2019. He expressed how the relevance of the score by composer Dave Malloy only intensifies with time, which ultimately led him to take on the directing role for the film adaptation.
Sharing her thoughts on her fellow cast members, Seyfried expressed her appreciation for the joyful atmosphere fostered during rehearsals. “Every single person is wonderful and fun and wants to be there,” she said. The camaraderie among cast members is palpable, as they all bring their passion for music and performance to the table, fostering a collaborative and positive environment.
As the production gears up, the specific release date for “Octet” has yet to be announced. However, anticipation continues to grow among fans of Miranda’s work and those eager to see Seyfried return to her musical roots.
With a vibrant cast, compelling themes, and the promise of Melodic storytelling, “Octet” is shaping up to be a noteworthy addition to Miranda’s directorial repertoire. For fans of musical theatre and cinema alike, this film is one to watch in the coming years as it navigates the complex intersections of technology, human connection, and the enduring power of song.