Julia Roberts, Paul Rudd, and Sarah Paulson will star in Bess Wohl's 'Small Mouth Sounds' on Broadway this winter, directed by Joe Mantello.
Julia Roberts, Paul Rudd, and Sarah Paulson are set to return to Broadway in a production of Bess Wohl's play Small Mouth Sounds. This announcement was made by Deadline on September 8, 2026. The production aims to premiere this winter, with previews expected to begin on February 18, 2027, at the Ethel Barrymore Theater, leading up to an official opening on March 18, 2027.
The play will be directed by Joe Mantello, known for his acclaimed collaborations on Broadway. Mantello is reuniting with producers Scott Rudin and Barry Diller, who are committed to delivering compelling theater experiences. This production follows their recent announcement of another collaboration, Downstate, which is also set to hit Broadway this fall.
Small Mouth Sounds is characterized as an experimental work described as a nearly silent comedy. Alongside the star-studded cast, it will feature a creative team that includes Tony Award-winning scenic designer Chloe Lamford, lighting designer Jack Knowles, costume designer An D’Huys, and sound designer Tom Gibbons, among others. The score will be composed by Pulitzer Prize winner Caroline Shaw. This blend of talent positions Small Mouth Sounds as a noteworthy production for theatergoers, attracting a diverse audience eager for innovative theatrical experiences.
The scenic and sound elements signal a commitment to an immersive experience that enhances the narrative while maintaining the play's unique experimental nature. A marketing strategy for this production was announced, combining it with Downstate in a ticketing option designed for early adopters. This strategy aims to appeal to serious theatergoers looking to engage with quality productions on Broadway.
Scott Rudin expressed that this approach will enable dedicated audiences to experience both plays, which exemplify ambitious storytelling and artistic engagement. While both productions explore different themes, this promotional strategy may entice theater enthusiasts to delve into both offerings, enhancing their Broadway experience.
Roberts and Rudd famously shared the Broadway stage in Three Days of Rain in 2006, while Paulson received acclaim for her role in Appropriate in 2023. This history adds an exciting layer for audiences familiar with their work on stage, as they return to theater after spending significant time in film and television.
In conclusion, the upcoming performance of Small Mouth Sounds is highly anticipated not just for its cast but also for the creativity behind it. The combination of a striking directorial vision, an established production team, and a unique play format could attract a wide range of theatergoers this winter, marking a significant moment in Broadway's recent history.
The return of major film stars Julia Roberts, Paul Rudd, and Sarah Paulson to Broadway reflects a growing trend where established actors are venturing back to stage productions, particularly in collaborative works. The implementation of unique ticketing strategies could pave the way for new audience engagement methods in theater, promoting accessibility for discerning theater lovers looking for quality plays. As Small Mouth Sounds approaches its opening, it may become a focal point of Broadway discussions, from its artistic direction to its box office performance.
For more updates, be sure to check out related articles on Downstate and other upcoming Broadway reveals.
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