Mean Girls star Erika Henningsen will head the cast of the world premiere of Joy the Musical, which will play New Jersey's George Street Playhouse December 7–30.

Directed by Casey Hushion (Aladdin, The Prom) with choreography by Emmy winner and Tony nominee Joshua Bergasse, the new musical features a score by Tony nominee AnnMarie Milazzo, musical supervision by Andy Einhorn, and a book by Tony winner Ken Davenport. The latter obtained the rights to the life story of best-selling author, inventor, and self-made millionaire Joy Mangano.

The musical focuses on Joy, the girl who becomes the woman who founded a business dynasty. Facing betrayal, treachery, the loss of innocence, and the scars of love, Joy becomes a boss of family and enterprise.

Says Henningsen, “It's always inspiring to see women who defy expectations portrayed onstage; it's even more thrilling when that woman's story is true. I am beyond grateful to be joining the Joy family and cannot wait to share this story through the incredible script and score our artistic team has crafted. Joy herself is a testament to the idea that any dream, big or small, is worthy and can come to fruition when we trust our voice and our heart. I look forward to trusting both as we bring this brand new, original musical to life.”

Additional casting will be announced.

The world premiere is presented in association with Sandi Moran and Ken Davenport. Visit JoyTheMusical.com.