A new musical adaptation of “Silver Linings Playbook” will hold a private industry reading Oct. 23. Based on David O. Russell’s 2012 film and Matthew Quick’s novel of the same name, the musical was first reported to be in development in 2021. Lead producers James D. Stern and Oren Michels and executive producer Tom Viertel are producing the reading.
“Silver Linings Playbook” follows a Philadelphia man determined to win back his wife who finds hope and an unexpected dance partner. The stage iteration will feature music and lyrics by Grammy Award-winning duo A Great Big World, a book by four-time Tony Award nominee Rick Elice and direction by two-time Tony nominee Jessica Stone.
A Great Big World, comprising Ian Axel and Chad King, is known for the songs “Say Something,” recorded with Christina Aguilera, and “This Is the New Year.” The duo won a Grammy Award in 2015 for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for “Say Something.” Elice is a four-time Tony Award nominee whose Broadway credits include “Jersey Boys,” “The Addams Family,” “Peter and the Starcatcher,” “The Cher Show” and “Water for Elephants.” Stone received Tony Award nominations for directing “Kimberly Akimbo,” which won five Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and “Water for Elephants.” She was appointed artistic director of La Jolla Playhouse in November 2025 and is scheduled to launch her inaugural season in April 2027.
Stern’s most recent Broadway co-producing credits include “The Encounter” and “An Act of God” as well as films including “An Education,” “Hotel Rwanda” and “Murder Mystery.” Michels is a co-founder of the League of Live Stream Theater; his Broadway co-producing credits include “Every Brilliant Thing” and “Good Night, and Good Luck.” Viertel most recently co-produced Broadway’s “The Roommate,” starring Mia Farrow and Patti LuPone.
Additional details and a production timeline for “Silver Linings Playbook” will be announced at a later date. Bespoke Theatricals serves as general manager for the reading.
