Ben Platt to Star in First Original Musical Since Dear Evan Hansen with Composer Behind KPop Demon Hunters Hit
Ben Platt is set to return to the stage in a brand new original musical, marking his first since the global phenomenon Dear Evan Hansen premiered in 2015. The Tony Award winner will headline the UK premiere of MIDNIGHT AT THE NEVER GET, opening this July at London’s Menier Chocolate Factory.
Platt reunites with Oscar nominated composer Mark Sonnenblick, whose recent work includes the standout track Goldenfrom KPop Demon Hunters, currently nominated for Best Original Song at this year’s Academy Awards. The new musical will play from 11 July to 12 September, marking Platt’s first full production run on the London stage.
Speaking about the project, Platt said he was “thrilled” to be undertaking his London debut at the Menier as the venue is transformed into the nightclub world of The Never Get.
“It’s truly wonderful to work with Mark, who is not only a genius songwriter, but who has also become a true friend,” Platt said. “It’s a very special piece, my first wholly original musical since Dear Evan Hansen, and we look forward to working with the generationally talented David Cromer to create this singular experience.”
MIDNIGHT AT THE NEVER GET is conceived by Sam Bolen, Max Friedman, and Sonnenblick, and tells a deeply personal love story set against a period of social upheaval. The musical centres on two men whose relationship exists in secret during a time when being openly gay was illegal.
According to the synopsis, the story unfolds in New York City during the mid 20th century, following nightclub performers Trevor Copeland and Arthur Brightman. In their clandestine act titled “Midnight”, the pair sing love songs in defiance of a society that demands they remain hidden. As political tensions rise and a historic movement begins to take shape, the men are forced to choose between protecting their private relationship and stepping into a changing world.
Sonnenblick has described the work as “beautifully intimate theatre”, saying the collaboration holds particular personal significance.
“This show means a tremendous amount to me and it’s a gift to collaborate with Ben again. He’s a once in a generation performer,” Sonnenblick said. “It’s also a huge privilege to work with the brilliant David Cromer as we realise the piece afresh for its UK premiere.”
Following the announcement, the creative team also released a first look at one of the show’s songs, Mercy of Love, a soaring ballad that gives Platt ample opportunity to showcase the vocal power that has defined his stage career.
Platt will also be in London earlier this year for a special 25th anniversary concert presentation of The Last Five Years, performing alongside Rachel Zegler. He remains best known for originating the role of Evan Hansen on Broadway, a performance that earned him a Tony Award and later led to his reprise of the role in the film adaptation.
No additional casting has yet been announced for MIDNIGHT AT THE NEVER GET. Menier Chocolate Factory members will have access to priority booking from 2 March, with general ticket sales opening on 11 March. Ticket pricing details are expected to be released closer to the on sale date.
The Menier Chocolate Factory is a 180 seat Off West End theatre located in Southwark, just a short walk from London Bridge and Borough Market. The venue continues its strong programming streak, with upcoming productions including Noel Coward’s FALLEN ANGELS and THE PRODUCERS, which is set to transfer later this year.
Further details about MIDNIGHT AT THE NEVER GET will be announced in the coming months.
Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com
