Many people don’t know the story of the classic hymn or the composer of “Amazing Grace,” but the new musical of the same name seeks to change that.
The musical explores the life of John Newton, who was an Englishman who worked as a slave trader before a change of heart compelled him to become an abolitionist, writing the well-known song along the way.
Most of the cast performed in the Chicago production, including Josh Young who portrays Newton (and was nominated for a Tony in 2012 on his Broadway debut in Jesus Christ Superstar). Also returning from the off Broadway production are Tony winner Chuck Cooper, Chris Hoch, Erin Mackey, and Stanley Bahorek.
Amazing Grace, according to press notes, is a “world-premiere musical based on the awe-inspiring true story behind the world’s most beloved song. A captivating tale of romance, rebellion and redemption, this radiant production follows one man whose incredible journey ignited a historic wave of change.
John Newton (Young), a willful and musically talented young Englishman, faces a future as uncertain as the turning tide. Coming of age as Britain sits atop an international empire of slavery, he finds himself torn between following in the footsteps of his father – a slave trader – and embracing the more compassionate views of his childhood sweetheart (Mackey).”
In addition, Amazing Grace will also explore the viewpoint of a slave named Thomas, portrayed by Tony award-winning Broadway Black actor Chuck Cooper ( The Life; Caroline, Or Change).
Amazing Grace opens on July 16 at the Nederlander Theatre, and will run through December.
