A stage musical based on the music of Amy Winehouse is officially in development, with London’s West End the reported destination. Variety first reported the project, and The Guardian confirmed it.
Broadway producer Catherine Schreiber, whose credits include Cabaret and Rent, is involved, and casting is reportedly underway. Mitch Winehouse, who oversees his daughter’s estate, is believed to be participating, though his role has not been confirmed. An award-winning director has reportedly been attached to the early stages, but the name has not been shared and it is unclear whether they will direct the final production.
Many details are still open. No writer, theatre or opening date has been announced, and it is not clear whether the show will be a traditional biography or an original story built around her catalogue. Workshop details appearing on actors’ casting profiles suggest the development has been picking up speed.
The timing is fitting. Mark Ronson and Salaam Remi, the producers behind Back to Black, recently joined her original band and artists including Jorja Smith, FLO, Corinne Bailey Rae and Jessie Reyez for a Roundhouse concert marking 20 years since the album, though no link to the musical has been stated.
Winehouse died in 2011 at 27, leaving behind six Grammys, a Brit Award and three Ivor Novellos. Fans will be watching closely to see how her story is brought to the stage.
