The world premiere of the new musical Light Years begins February 6 at Signature Theatre in Arlington, Virginia. The new musical features a score and a book by Robbie Schaefer of the band Eddie From Ohio.
The production, directed by Artistic Director Eric Schaeffer (Broadway’s Follies, Gigi, Million Dollar Quartet), will run through March 4.
Schaefer heads a cast that also features Bobby Smith (Signature’s Crazy for You, A Little Night Music), Natascia Diaz (Signature’s Crazy for You, Jesus Christ Superstar), Luke Smith (Broadway’s Significant Other), John Sygar (1st Stage’s Floyd Collins), and Kara-Tameika Watkins (Signature’s Jesus Christ Superstar, Jelly’s Last Jam).
In Light Years, Robbie journeys from his childhood in India to the joys and struggles of growing up, pursuing his passion, and raising a family. Entwined throughout is his cherished relationship with his father—and his father’s haunted past.
“I’m thrilled to be directing this world premiere with a terrific cast. Signature Theatre has been developing Light Years over the past two years and it’s exciting that it will now have its world premiere on our stage,” said Schaeffer in an earlier statement. “I’ve been a fan of Robbie Schaefer’s music over the years from his band Eddie from Ohio. His special theatrical voice promises to bring a unique experience to our audiences in this groundbreaking new work.”
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“Developing Light Years with Eric Schaeffer and Signature Theatre has been such an enlivening and deeply gratifying experience,” added creator-star Schaefer. “Their trust in my artistry and vision has emboldened me and allowed Light Years to bloom into something I barely imagined when I began writing it over two years ago.”
The production also features musical direction by David Holcenberg, choreography by Kelly Crandall d’Amboise, scenic design by Eric Schaeffer, lighting design by Chris Lee, costume design by Kathleen Geldard, sound design by Ryan Hickey, and video design by Mark Costello. The production stage manager is Kerry Epstein, the assistant stage manager is Bekah Wachenfeld, and the production assistant is Joey Blakely.
For ticket information, visit SigTheatre.org.
