Producer Scott Rudin has confirmed plans for two upcoming Broadway shows featuring Julia Roberts and Paul Rudd, set for release next season.
Producer Scott Rudin is set to return to Broadway with two new theatrical offerings. This announcement, made through The Hollywood Reporter on September 8, includes a bold play titled Downstate, as well as a star-studded production of Small Mouth Sounds, featuring acclaimed actors Julia Roberts and Paul Rudd.
Downstate, written by Bruce Norris, focuses on the lives of four convicted sex offenders living in a group home. The play has received attention for its provocative subject matter, having premiered previously at the Steppenwolf Theatre Company in 2018 and later Off-Broadway at Playwrights Horizons, where it was well-received. Joe Mantello, a frequent collaborator with Rudin, will direct Downstate, which is slated to run at the Booth Theatre beginning October 17, with an official opening set for November 15. The cast features Liza Colón-Zayas, K. Todd Freeman, Francis Guinan, and others, including several performers from the original Chicago cast.
The second production, Small Mouth Sounds, is a unique comedic play written by Bess Wohl, who won the Pulitzer Prize last season for her work Liberation. This play, set in a silent retreat, relies heavily on physical comedy due to its limited dialogue among characters. Small Mouth Sounds will begin performances on February 18, 2027, at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, with an official opening on March 18. It features an ensemble cast that includes Martin Freeman, Greta Lee, Sarah Paulson, and Isaac Powell, with Mantello again directing.
Rudin's return to Broadway follows a leave of absence that began in 2021 due to allegations of bullying and abuse from former employees, which sparked significant controversy. His comeback was marked by the success of Death of a Salesman, which won six Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Play. Although there has been some tension surrounding his return, there has not been significant public backlash against his new productions.
To encourage attendance at both shows, Rudin has introduced a ticketing deal that offers discounts for guests who purchase tickets to both Downstate and Small Mouth Sounds. This strategy suggests a desire to revive interest in Broadway productions amid ongoing complexities following past controversies.
Both shows aim to attract a diverse audience by addressing contemporary themes and featuring high-caliber talent. Downstate has previously sparked controversy due to its challenging topics, but strong direction and performances are anticipated to mitigate concerns. Small Mouth Sounds, with its unique format and star-studded cast, is expected to appeal to a broad audience eager for innovative theatrical experiences.
Rudin's announcement marks a significant development in the Broadway landscape, showcasing a blend of challenging narratives and star power. The productions highlight the return of a notable figure in theater, while also introducing fresh works that demand attention from both critics and the general public. As both shows prepare to hit the stage, they are likely to shape discussions about morality, creativity, and the therapeutic power of art.
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