Daniel Krikler will take on the central role in the world premiere of the musical adaptation of Wladyslaw Szpilman’s memoir The Pianist at London’s Park Theatre this autumn.
Written and directed by multi-award-winner Thom Southerland and featuring Szpilman’s own original music with new lyrics and new orchestrations by Simon Lee, the production is due to run from 15 October to 28 November.
Looking forward to starring in the musical version of the story which was famously made into an Oscar-winning film by director Roman Polanski starring Adrian Brody, Krikler said: “I couldn’t be more honoured and excited to be bringing Wladyslaw’s life to the stage, especially in a way that truly celebrates his own compositions through phenomenal live musicians and orchestrations. As well as being a timely reminder of what happens when we dehumanise a particular section of society, Szpilman’s story demonstrates the true universality and power of music.”
The production will feature choreography and movement direction by Karen Bruce, set and video design by Andrzej Goulding, lighting design by Robbie Butler, sound design by Gareth Tucker for Autograph Sound, costume design by Jonathan Lipman, musical direction by Malcolm Forbes-Peckham and assistant direction by Josh Whatsize, with casting by Ginny Schiller, casting assistance by Ben Armstrong and executive production and general management by DEM Productions.
A cast of virtuoso actor-musicians is being assembled to bring the powerful story of the man known as the ‘Polish Gershwin’ to the stage for the production which will also play a limited run at the Mayflower Studios in Southampton from 8-12 September.
The production will feature new lyrics by an international group of writers and musicians, bringing fresh voice to Szpilman’s original compositions. The lyricists and songwriters include double Grammy nominee Carol Connors, acclaimed songwriter David Batteau, jazz singer Wendy Lands and collaborator Jim Gillard, Grammy-nominated Michael Ruff, Szpilman’s son Andreas Szpilman and award-winning lyricist Marcy Heisler.
Adaptor and director Southerland said: “The Pianist is a story that has lived with me for many years and I feel deeply honoured to be bringing it to the stage. At its heart is Wladyslaw Szpilman’s extraordinary journey of survival, but what moves me most is the humanity that shines through the darkest of circumstances. It is a story about compassion, courage and the moments of kindness that can change the course of a life.
“Throughout this process, it has been a genuine privilege to collaborate with the Szpilman family. Their trust in us to tell Wladyslaw’s story is something I carry with great responsibility, and their insight has been invaluable in helping us bring him to life not only as a survivor, but as an artist, a father and a man whose music was inseparable from who he was.
“I have also been incredibly fortunate to work alongside an exceptional team of creatives. Collaborating with Karen Bruce, Simon Lee, Robbie Butler and the extraordinary Daniel Krikler, who embodies Szpilman with such sensitivity and depth, has been a constant source of inspiration. Every person involved has brought immense passion and care to this production, united by a desire to honour the truth of this story.
“One of the aspects of the production I am most excited to share is the music. Beyond the story that many people know, there exists a wealth of beautiful and often overlooked music composed by Szpilman himself. To unearth these works and allow audiences to experience them in the context of his life feels incredibly special. His music becomes another voice in the telling of this story, one that speaks of loss, hope, memory and ultimately survival.
“As we prepare to share The Pianist with audiences, I am reminded of why this story continues to resonate across generations. In a world that can often feel divided, it reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of art to sustain us, connect us, and, at times, save us. I hope audiences are moved not only by what Szpilman endured, but by what he created, and by the enduring belief that even in the darkest moments, humanity and beauty can prevail.”
Producer Michael Wolk added: “I’ve been delighted to see how melding Wladyslaw Szpilman’s brilliant melodies with his riveting memoir makes The Pianist a completely new experience. The movie and book tell Szpilman’s story, but Szpilman’s score reveals his heart and soul, which gives our production a remarkable immediacy and intimacy.”
Further cast members will be announced at a later date.
Angela Thomas
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