Scott Bakula and Ariana DeBose to Star in 'The Baker's Wife' Off Broadway Revival

What's Happening?

Scott Bakula is set to star alongside Ariana DeBose in the upcoming Off Broadway revival of the musical 'The Baker's Wife.' The production, announced by the Classic Stage Company, will begin previews on October 23 at the Lynn F. Angelson Theater, with an official opening on November 11. The limited engagement will run through December 14. Bakula, known for his roles in 'Quantum Leap' and 'Star Trek: Enterprise,' will play the role of baker Aimable Castagnet, while DeBose will portray his wife, Genevieve. The musical, originally created by Joseph Stein and Stephen Schwartz in 1976, is based on the 1938 film 'La Femme du Boulanger' by Marcel Pagnol and Jean Giono. This revival marks the first major New York appearance of the musical, which features a score by Schwartz and a book by Stein. The production is directed by Gordon Greenberg and is part of CSC's 2025-2026 season.

Why It's Important?

The revival of 'The Baker's Wife' is significant as it brings a classic musical back to the New York stage, offering audiences a chance to experience a work that has intrigued theater enthusiasts for decades. The involvement of high-profile actors like Scott Bakula and Ariana DeBose adds star power and draws attention to the production, potentially increasing its appeal and audience reach. This revival also highlights the enduring appeal of Stephen Schwartz's music, known for its emotional depth and complexity. For the theater community, this production represents an opportunity to revisit and reinterpret a storied piece of musical theater history, potentially influencing future revivals and adaptations. Additionally, it underscores the ongoing vitality of Off Broadway productions in contributing to the cultural landscape of New York City.

What's Next?

As the production gears up for its October previews, anticipation is likely to build among theatergoers and critics alike. The success of the revival could lead to further interest in reviving other lesser-known works by Schwartz and Stein. Additionally, the performances of Bakula and DeBose will be closely watched, potentially impacting their future roles and projects. The production's reception may also influence the Classic Stage Company's programming decisions for future seasons, as well as the broader trend of reviving classic musicals with contemporary casts and interpretations.