Alice Hoffman’s 1995 novel, Practical Magic, is set to be adapted for stage, in a new musical production, announced this year. The bestselling novel has already been given the adaptation treatment with the well-known 1998 film from Warner Bros, starring Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Dianne Wiest, Stockard Channing and Aidan Quinn. Now, the story will be reimagined in musical form, bringing the work to a whole new audience, as well as bringing nostalgia to firm fans.
Practical Magic tells the stories of Sally and Gillian Owens, born into a magical family. The two sisters are raised by their eccentric aunts in a town that fears their family’s heritage of witchcraft. The Owens sisters, seeking normal lives, and head out on their own, but when Gillian’s abusive boyfriend unexpectedly dies, the sister reunite. They must then use their magical powers to overcome a curse that threatens their family.
Directed by Maria Friedman, the stage musical based on the much-loved film and book is currently in development. Alice Hoffman will write the production alongside playwright, Peter Duchan, and Grammy Award winners, Norah Jones and Gregg Wattenberg, are writing the music.
“Music is the heart and soul of Practical Magic, you can hear it as you read the book, even though it isn’t there. Now you will finally hear the story as I always imagined it. You will hear magic.” said Alice Hoffman.
The new musical will be produced for Broadway by Stephanie and Nicole Kramer and Brian and Dayna Lee. There is currently no further news regarding dates or venues.
