Recently the opportunity arose to produce a pre-Broadway engagement about an American icon starring a four-time Emmy Award-winning actress. As discussions progressed, it became obvious that this opportunity would only be available for a limited time, and if we wanted our audiences to experience the work prior to its Broadway bow, we would have to replace one of our previously announced spring productions. At the same time that this opportunity presented itself, we received the news that an actor cast in a leading role in Sweet Bird of Youth was no longer available. Sweet Bird of Youth was conceived around this major American artist, and as developed, is no longer a viable option for Arena Stage.
To address the loss of this actor and to accommodate an amazing opportunity, Arena Stage has decided to replace the previously announced production of Sweet Bird of Youth with Looped, starring Valerie Harper (Rhoda in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”) as Tallulah Bankhead. Joining Valerie in this production is the Tony Award-winning actor Jarrod Emick (Broadway’s Damn Yankees). From the writer of the hit play Tea at Five and the director of Arena Stage’s production of Ella, Looped tells the story of Tallulah Bankhead, the original celebrity bad girl, being called into a sound studio to "loop" one line of dialogue for what would be her last film. Southern, but by no means a belle, Ms. Bankhead was known for her wild partying that outshined even today's superstars. Relish in the promiscuity, scandal and outrageous wit of this sultry-voiced stage and film star.
The critics were unanimous in their praise for Looped in Los Angeles:
"Entertainment value is guaranteed! Valerie Harper brings Tallulah Bankhead's outrageousness and glamour to life!" - Charles McNulty, The Los Angeles Times
"A tour-de-force turn by Valerie Harper!" - Jonas Schwartz, TheaterMania
"Outrageous fun!" - Daily Variety
"Harper is a revelation in Matthew Lombardo's riveting new play!" - Hollywood Reporter
We are constantly looking for the best and most exciting productions in the American theater for our audiences, and we are incredibly excited to be able to bring Looped to Arena Stage immediately before its Broadway debut. If you purchased tickets to Sweet Bird of Youth, the dates that you have will not change, and new tickets will be issued within the next several weeks.
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