Huey Lewis and the News Take Broadway by Storm with “The Heart of Rock and Roll”
Eighties music sensation Huey Lewis and the News have made their mark on Broadway with their very own jukebox musical, “The Heart of Rock and Roll.” Written by Jonathan A. Abrams and produced by Tyler Mitchell, the musical follows the story of Bobby, a young man with faded rock star dreams who finds himself at a crossroads in his life.
Bobby, played by Corey Cott, works for a cardboard manufacturer in Milwaukee but dreams of becoming a sales team star. After a series of events lead to his firing, Bobby embarks on a journey to a business conference in Chicago where he discovers that his old band, The Loop, has a chance at a comeback. As he navigates his newfound opportunities, Bobby must also win over the affections of Cassandra, played by McKenzie Kurtz.
“The Heart of Rock and Roll” features a plethora of Huey Lewis hits, including tracks from their first seven albums. The show captures the essence of the band’s music and the vibrant energy of the ’80s era, making it a must-see for fans of the band and the decade.
Huey Lewis, although not performing in the musical, has been heavily involved in the production as a producer. He, along with bandmate Johnny Colla and musical supervisor Brian Usifer, even co-wrote a new song for the show, titled “Be Someone.”
The musical showcases the power of reimagining classic songs and the importance of having a team that deeply understands and respects the material. Despite facing challenges with his hearing, Lewis has remained an integral part of the creative process, ensuring that the essence of the band’s music is preserved in the production.
With a talented cast, skilled musicians, and a heartfelt story, “The Heart of Rock and Roll” promises to take audiences on a nostalgic journey through the iconic music of Huey Lewis and the News.