> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.broadwaynews.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# Broadway-aimed new musical ‘The Apple Boys’ sets Off-Broadway premiere
- URL: https://www.broadwaynews.com/broadway-aimed-new-musical-the-apple-boys-sets-off-broadway-premiere/
- Published: 2026-09-30T21:12:31.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-30T21:12:31.000Z
- Description: Tony Award-winning producer LaChanze is one of the new musical’s producers.
- Author: Lee D'Amato
- Tags: In Development, LaChanze, News, The Apple Boys, Jonothon Lyons, Ben Bonnema, David Alpert

A Broadway-aimed new musical, “The Apple Boys,” has announced its Off-Broadway premiere for this winter. Performances of “The Apple Boys” will begin at The Duke on 42nd Street (part of New 42 Studios) on Feb. 16, 2027, ahead of an official opening night on Feb. 25 and scheduled closing on June 18\. The new musical is being produced by Johnnie Hawkins and four-time Tony Award-winning producer LaChanze, with Larry Bomback and AJ Epstein as co-producers. 

“The Apple Boys” will feature a book by Jonothon Lyons, with music and lyrics by Ben Bonnema. David Alpert, who also directed the musical’s 2018 Off-Off-Broadway premiere, will return to helm the new staging. The musical comedy follows Jack, the grandson of pioneering horticulturist and folk hero Johnny Appleseed. It’s the Gilded Age, and Jack and his pals have moved to Coney Island. But when a nefarious landlord plots to take over the family orchard, Jack and his buddies decide to join a singing competition in order to raise the money they need to save the property.

Choreography for “The Apple Boys” will be by Marc Kimelman. The creative team also includes scenic designer Adam Koch, costume designer Johanna Pan, lighting designer Rui Rita, sound designer Alex Neumann, music supervisor Rona Siddiqui and vocal arranger Matt Gallagher. Evan Bernardin Productions will serve as general manager. Casting, which has not yet been announced, will be by Jason Styres. 

In addition to its 2018 Off-Off-Broadway premiere, “The Apple Boys” also ran in 2025 at Bucks County Playhouse in Pennsylvania.

“‘The Apple Boys’ has all the elements that make for a deeply satisfying musical comedy, from its lovable characters to its glorious score,” said LaChanze in a statement. “I’m thrilled to be joining the producing team alongside Johnnie Hawkins. These songs will leave you wanting to sing for joy!” 

SPONSORED BY BROADWAY NEWS 

****Broadway News Pro** delivers news, analysis, and guest essays from industry leaders to facilitate meaningful and creative conversations on Broadway. From breaking news to deeply-reported long reads and exclusive interviews, subscribers can rely on Broadway News for stories that matter. Start your subscription for $1/month.

[Learn more ](https://www.broadwaynews.com/welcome-offer)