The musical was first reported in November 2014 by Variety following a private industry reading held on October 31. In summer 2016, it was announced that the musical held a second private reading starring Brian d’Arcy James and Carmen Cusack.[4] An additional lab was held in 2017, again with James starring in the title role.
It was announced in January 2018 that the musical would premiere at Arena Stage in Washington, D.C. in summer 2018.[5] On March 27, 2018, it was announced that Drew Gehling would star in the title role.[6] In May 2018, it was announced that Gehling would be joined by Mamie Parris as Ellen Mitchell.
Productions
Arena Stage (2018)
The musical began previews at Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., on July 18, 2018, for a limited engagement until August 19, 2018.[7] The production was directed by Tina Landau. The production's design team included scenery by Dane Laffrey, costumes by Toni-Leslie James, lighting by Japhy Weideman, projections by Peter Nigrini, and sound by Walter Trarbach.[8]
The musical has been updated to reflect current technology and practices, such as social media, cell phones, Twitter, a 24/7 news cycle and YouTube.[9]