22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- San Francisco Chronicle
Tom Hanks to star in off-Broadway show based on his own short stories
Tom Hanks is returning to live theater for the world premiere of an original work this fall.
The East Bay native is set to star in the off-Broadway play 'This World of Tomorrow,' which he co-wrote with playwright James Glossman, for an eight-week run at the Griffin Theater at The Shed in New York City.
Previews are scheduled to begin Oct. 30.
Hanks will play Bert Allenberry, a scientist who continually travels back in time to the World's Fair of 1939 in a quest for true love. The project is based on a series of short stories written by Hanks.
'To explore the themes of love and yearning, and the struggles of today as we carry with us the eternal memories of the past, in such a place as The Shed, strikes me as a one-of-a-kind experience not unlike the World's Fair of 1939,' Hanks said in a statement.
Ticket presales start July 15, with general sales beginning July 24.
Kenny Leon, who recently directed 'Othello' and 'Our Town' on Broadway, will direct. The rest of the show's cast is still to be announced.
"This story explores a fascinating tale of the echoes of past generations, the often-surprising collisions between them, and what is carried forward with an authentic humor,' Leon said in a statement. 'I can't wait to bring to life in the Griffin Theater.'
Hanks' last live theater performance was in 2013, when he starred in the newsroom drama 'Lucky Guy' on Broadway. He earned a Tony Award nomination for his role as tabloid journalist Mike McAlary.
Before trekking across the coast to prepare for the show, Hanks is taking the time to make the most of his California lifestyle. Last week, he was spotted proudly wearing a green Athletics cap and matching jacket while rooting for the Athletics during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Southern California.
