Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Mitski will write the music and lyrics for a stage musical adaptation of The Queen’s Gambit. The Emmy-winning Netflix miniseries put Anya Taylor-Joy on the map via fictional 1960s chess whiz Beth Harmon. No additional information about the musical’s world premiere production is available at this time.
According to Deadline, Mitski shared her excitement for the adaptation in a statement. “Before Level Forward even brought the idea of making a musical of The Queen’s Gambit, I was a fan of the Netflix show, and an even greater fan of the original novel,” she said. “So I was already determined to be a member of this team. And then I met Eboni and Whitney, and my determination grew tenfold! I absolutely had to be a part of this! I am ecstatic to get to work with all of these amazing creatives, who’ve each built beautiful and unique repertoires of their own.”
The series originated from author Walter Tevis’ 1983 novel surrounding a chess prodigy who struggles with substance abuse. Playwright Eboni Booth (Primary Trust) will breathe new life into the theatrical version of the Netflix series. Additionally, Obie Award-winner Whitney White (Jaja’s African Hair Braiding) will direct.
“The Queen’s Gambit is a wholly original story about yearning for connection and finding your way in life, no matter the barriers,” said Booth. “I couldn’t be more thrilled to explore this world in the company of such extraordinary artists. Musicals are one of my first loves, and I feel so lucky to be tasked with the challenge of bringing Beth Harmon’s haunting and inspiring journey to the stage.”
In other Mitski news, her critically acclaimed album has recently seen huge success. The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We has charted high on many year-end lists. This is thanks to the insanely viral treatment of “My Love Mine All Mine.” The singer also received an Oscar nomination for her song “This Is a Life.” The song, from the Oscar-winning film Everything Everywhere All at Once, received a nomination for Music (Original Song).
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