Get ready to be starstruck! The world premiere of a bold new musical is set to dazzle audiences, but here’s where it gets controversial—it’s not just about the glitz and glamour. Starstruck, a Cyrano-inspired tale with a modern twist, is coming to the Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope, Pennsylvania, and it’s already sparking conversations. Why? Because it’s not your typical love story—it’s a clash of ambition, community, and unexpected romance.
Directed and choreographed by the acclaimed Lorin Latarro (known for The Who's Tommy and Chess), this musical dives into the life of Cyd DeBerg, a determined woman in Sawtooth, Idaho, who’s on a mission to create the first International Dark Sky Reserve in the U.S. Sounds noble, right? But here’s the catch: her fellow townspeople aren’t exactly on board. And this is the part most people miss—amidst the conflict, Cyd finds herself entangled in an unlikely love triangle. Will her dreams collide with her heart? You’ll have to see it to find out.
The star-studded cast includes Tony-nominated co-creator Beth Malone (Fun Home) as Cyd, Krysta Rodriguez (Smash) as Roxanne Cooley, and Sam Gravitte (Wicked) as Chris. Joining them are Danielle Lee Greaves (Parade), Scott Stangland (Dead Outlaw), Sandra Valls (Real Women Have Curves), Donald Corren (Souvenir), Sydney Patrick (Kinky Boots national tour), Nathan Quay Thomas, and Elana Cantor. With a book by Malone and Mary Ann Stratton, and music and lyrics by Emily Saliers of the Indigo Girls, this production promises to be a feast for the senses.
But let’s talk about the elephant in the room—the creative team behind Starstruck is a powerhouse. From scenic designer Beowulf Boritt to costume designer Sophia Choi, every detail is crafted to transport you to Sawtooth, Idaho. And here’s a bold statement: the addition of queer icons Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Tig Notaro as executive producers (their theatrical debut!) adds a layer of cultural significance that’s hard to ignore. Is this just a musical, or is it a statement? We’ll let you decide.
As the curtain rises on February 19 (with an official opening on February 28), one thing is clear: Starstruck is more than a show—it’s a conversation starter. Will Cyd’s vision prevail? Can love and ambition coexist? And what does it mean to chase a dream against all odds? These questions linger long after the final bow.
Tickets are available now, but don’t wait—this is one premiere you won’t want to miss. For more information, visit Bucks County Playhouse. And here’s a thought-provoking question for you: In a world where dreams often collide with reality, whose side are you on—Cyd’s or the townspeople’s? Let us know in the comments!
