Broadway is buzzing with excitement as Shailene Woodley, known for her captivating performances on both the big and small screens, prepares to make her stage debut in the new play Cult of Love. The production is being highly anticipated not just because of the plot, but also due to its star-studded cast, which includes Zachary Quinto of the Star Trek fame and Barbie Ferreira from Euphoria.
The play, crafted by the talented Leslye Headland, who is also recognized for her work on Star Wars: The Acolyte and Russian Doll, promises to deliver both laughs and heartfelt moments. Cult of Love revolves around the story of four adult siblings who return home for the holidays, aiming to reconnect and relive their cherished family traditions. Unfortunately, past grievances bubble to the surface, causing tension during what should be a joyous occasion. “Old conflicts resurface, new issues battled, and dinner is taking absolutely forever to be served,” as explained by the production’s website, raising the question: will love triumph or will this gathering mark the end of the Dahls’ family togetherness?
Set to begin previews on November 20, the play will open officially on December 12 at the Helen Hayes Theater, with tickets already available for eager fans. The anticipation for Woodley’s stage debut is palpable; her role is not just pivotal but marks her first foray onto the revered Broadway stage.
Woodley, now 32, is hailed for her performances in Big Little Lies and The Fault in Our Stars. Quinto, who recently starred alongside Woodley in the biopic Snowden, has made notable contributions to theater as well, having appeared on Broadway previously. Ferreira, meanwhile, brings her unique energy from the acclaimed series Euphoria, making this cast one of the most talked-about this season.
The production also sees the directorial brilliance of Trip Cullman, known for his acclaimed work on productions like Lobby Hero. With scenic design by John Lee Beatty, costume design by Sophia Choi, and lighting by Heather Gilbert, the visual elements promise to be as engaging as the story itself.
Joining the lead trio on stage are talented performers including Molly Bernard from Younger, Roberta Colindrez, Rebecca Henderson, Christopher Lowell, and Christopher Sears, ensuring the ensemble is rich with diversity and talent. Additional casting announcements are expected, adding to the intrigue surrounding the upcoming show.
Before the play completed its New York-bound plans, it had its world premiere at Berkeley Repertory Theatre this past January. The glowing reviews have only added to the excitement, with many theater enthusiasts speculating on how well the piece will translate to Broadway.
Headland's experience extends beyond the stage; she has also garnered significant acclaim for her storytelling skills both on stage and screen, crafting narratives filled with engaging character arcs and emotional depth. The playwright promises to bring the same depth to Cult of Love. According to sources, the play offers poignant reflections on familial bonds and the trials families face, and with this cast, the emotional storytelling is bound to resonate with audiences.
Fans of Woodley and the dramatic arts are already gearing up for what could be one of the theatrical highlights of the year. With recent musical adaptations making waves, Cult of Love serves as a reminder of the power of original storytelling on stage.
For those who can't wait for December, Woodley is also currently appearing on television, featuring prominently in the Starz series Three Women, alongside DeWanda Wise and Betty Gilpin, which is piquing viewer interest as its complex narrative explores themes of womanhood and relationships.
The play’s message highlights the importance of family, love, and the bittersweet realities of togetherness during the holiday season. It invites the audience to reflect on their own familial bonds and the often-turbulent yet loving dynamics within families. "Will the love the Dahls have for each other be enough to get them through, or will this be their last Christmas together?" The question teases the audience's intrigue, setting the stage for both laughs and lessons.
Speculation continues to rise surrounding the performance and its potential impact on Broadway. Will Woodley's on-screen charisma translate well to the live stage? And can Quinto and Ferreira offer the depth required to bring their roles alive? Only time will tell, but one thing is sure: Cult of Love is headed for success, no matter the outcome.
Tickets for the production are now on sale, with enthusiasts eager to witness firsthand the magic such talented actors can create together, leading us all to ponder how their stories will reflect and resonate with audiences.
