In an exciting event that celebrates a beloved cinematic classic, Rose Byrne, Bobby Cannavale, and Patti LuPone will come together for a one-night-only benefit reading of ‘Moonstruck.’ This special performance provides a unique opportunity for fans to experience John Patrick Shanley’s Oscar-winning screenplay in a live setting, featuring a stellar cast and notable direction. The reading, scheduled for November 10, will not only entertain but also contribute to the vital work of New York Stage and Film.
Star-Studded Cast
Rose Byrne and Bobby Cannavale, who are married in real life, will take on the iconic roles of Loretta Castorini and Ronny Cammareri, originally portrayed by Cher and Nicolas Cage in the film. The ensemble includes industry heavyweights such as Patti LuPone, Stevie Van Zandt, Steve Buscemi, John Turturro, Stephen DeRosa, Dez Duron, and Mary Lou Rosato. The event will be hosted by Peter Sagal, renowned as the host of the radio show ‘Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me,’ who will also read the stage directions.
Details of the Benefit Reading
Set to unfold at the Music Box Theatre on November 10 at 8 p.m., this benefit aims to raise funds for New York Stage and Film. The evening promises to be a memorable celebration of storytelling, with Tony Award winner Doug Hughes at the helm as director. This reading marks a significant occasion as it brings John Patrick Shanley’s celebrated film to the stage for the first time ever.
The Legacy of ‘Moonstruck’
Our audience will get a taste of the magic that won Cher an Academy Award for Best Actress. Beyond Byrne and Cannavale, Buscemi is set to portray Raymond Cappomaggi, while DeRosa and Duron will take on the roles of the crooners. LuPone will step into the shoes of Rose Castorini, Turturro will portray Cosmo Castorini, Van Zandt will play Johnny Cammareri, and Rosato will embody the crone. This reading is held in a theater where Cannavale starred in the Broadway play ‘Art,’ alongside James Corden and Neil Patrick Harris.
Supporting New Artistic Endeavors
The funds raised from the benefit will support a variety of initiatives at New York Stage and Film, including their summer season at Marist University and year-round programming in New York City. The organization is dedicated to developing dance narrative programming, providing residencies for individuals and collaborative organizations, and offering awards, fellowships, and apprenticeships aimed at fostering emerging talents in the field.
As anticipation builds for this unique event, the combination of Rose Byrne, Bobby Cannavale, and Patti LuPone in the ‘Moonstruck’ reading promises an unforgettable night that highlights the enduring appeal of Shanley’s work, all while supporting the future of theater. Be sure to mark your calendars for this special performance that supports both art and the artists behind it.
