Hugh Jackman to star in Broadway play 'The River'

The Aussie actor, who enjoys a bankable status both on screen and stage, will act in one of the smallest theaters on Broadway.

Actor Hugh Jackman has signed on to star in a Broadway production of The River, reports the New York Post.

The play, a poetic drama written by Jez Butterworth, takes place over the course of one moonless night in a cabin on a cliff.

The River‘s previous run at the Royal Court Theatre in London generated rave reviews.

Jackman, 45, is known for breaking box-office records wherever he performs. Due to this, he remains a sought-after star among Broadway producers.

Michael Reidel of the New York Post reports that Jackman’s one-man, 10-week show at the Broadhurst brought in nearly $15 million.

The River‘s producer Sonia Friedman spoke to the Post about landing Jackman, and choosing the right theater for the production.

“It was very complicated,” jokes Friedman. “We sent him the play and he said, ‘Yes.’”

The play begins previews Oct. 31 at the 776-seat theater Circle in the Square — one of the smallest playhouses on Broadway.

“I have seen plays and stars in theaters that are too big,” says Friedman to the Post. “It’s my job to protect Jez’s play. We could have easily gone to a 1,000-seat theater, but the work is too delicate. You need to feel you can touch the characters. You need to see the whites of their eyes.

“I know it sounds weird, but it’s the truth,” adds Friedman.

English actresses Laura Donnelly and Cush Jumbo round out the cast with their Broadway debuts.