Tom Hanks is set to make a triumphant return to the Broadway stage in the autumn of 2027, marking his first appearance in over 14 years. The two-time Academy Award winner will star in “This World of Tomorrow,” a time-travel romance that he co-wrote alongside James Glossman. Hanks previously captivated audiences with his Tony-nominated performance in “Lucky Guy” back in 2013, and this upcoming production promises a blend of nostalgia and innovation.
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“This World of Tomorrow” originally premiered in late 2025 at The Shed’s Griffin Theater in New York City, where it enjoyed an enthusiastic reception, culminating in a sold-out eight-week run. In this play, Hanks portrays Bert Allenberry, a solitary scientist navigating the complexities of life in the late 21st century. The storyline sees him travel back to the iconic 1939 New York World’s Fair, where he encounters a woman named Carmen, played by Tony Award winner Kelli O’Hara. Their encounter unfolds into a heartfelt romance that poignantly explores themes of love and connection through the passage of time.
Hanks will reunite with O’Hara for this Broadway transfer, and it will be helmed by director Kenny Leon, who helmed the original Off-Broadway run. Leon expressed enthusiasm about transitioning the play to Broadway, highlighting the opportunity to explore this unique narrative further with its original cast. “I’m thrilled to delve into this story of love and time travel,” he stated, indicating excitement over the chemistry between Hanks and O’Hara that audiences can now experience on the Broadway stage.
While promoting the Off-Broadway production on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” Hanks revealed some of the challenges he faced in performing in a play that he himself had a hand in writing. He humorously recalled moments where he forgot his lines, underscoring the additional pressures that accompany live theatre. “Yes, it feels different because they are going to have a real hard time firing me if I screw up,” Hanks joked, shedding light on the unique dynamics of participating as a writer and performer.
The Broadway transfer of “This World of Tomorrow” comes as O’Hara continues to build on an already illustrious career. A nine-time Tony nominee, she won the Best Actress in a Musical award for her stunning portrayal in “The King and I” and has received critical acclaim in various productions including “South Pacific,” “The Bridges of Madison County,” and more recently, “Fallen Angels.” O’Hara also appears on HBO’s “The Gilded Age,” introducing her talents to television audiences.
Behind the scenes, Brian Anthony Moreland will produce the Broadway iteration, having previously collaborated with Leon on the acclaimed revival of “Othello.” Moreland remarked on the significance of bringing such a narrative to the Broadway stage, emphasising that the enduring essence of love remains timeless, regardless of changing circumstances.
As anticipation builds towards this production, further details regarding exact performance dates and additional casting remain to be unveiled. The limited engagement is poised to capture the hearts of audiences once again as it takes residence in a Shubert theatre yet to be announced.
In sum, “This World of Tomorrow” brings together a beloved actor, a talented cast, and a compelling story that resonates with themes of love across time. With a successful run already under its belt, the play’s Broadway debut in 2027 is highly anticipated, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience for both fans of Hanks and newcomers alike.
For further updates on “This World of Tomorrow,” interested parties are encouraged to visit the official website at thisworldoftomorrowbway.com.