Jay Armstrong Johnson and Jimin Moon. Photo credit: Marc J. Franklin
Following a string of high-energy, sold-out concert engagements that left audiences clamoring for more, Heated Rivalry: The Unauthorized Musical Parody officially makes the leap to a fully staged Off-Broadway production.
Previews begin today, May 12, marking a significant milestone for the buzzy, satirical show as it settles into its new home.
The production stars Broadway’s Jay Armstrong Johnson (known for Parade) as the confident Ilya Rozanov and Jimin Moon (of Sunset Boulevard) as the reserved Shane Hollander.
Rounding out the ensemble are talented Broadway veterans Ryann Redmond( Frozen), Cherry Torres (Hamilton), and Ryan Duncan (Gettin’ the Band Back Together), most of whom reprise their roles from the earlier concert versions.
Under the creative direction of Alan Kliffer, the production transforms those initial concert sparks into a complete theatrical experience, blending sharp wit with the competitive drama and “time-jumping” romance fans adore.With a “bop-heavy” score by Dylan MarcAurele, the musical offers a tongue-in-cheek look at the journey from power center to power bottom.
The production is scheduled for an eight-week limited run, with the official opening night on May 26. It will play at the 6th Floor Theater, located at 530 West 27th Street, NY – a storied Chelsea venue formerly known as The McKittrick Hotel.
This transition to a permanent stage allows for enhanced production values and a more immersive environment for theatergoers looking to experience the rivalry up close.
