The official opening was pushed back 27 days, from Jan. 11 to Feb. 7, because a key actor has missed several previews due to injury and after producers decided that the creative team needs to work out more kinks before allowing critics to weigh in. "Due to some unforeseeable setbacks, most notably the injury of a principal cast member, it has become clear that we need to give the team more time to fully execute their vision," lead producer Michael Cohl said Friday.
"I have no intention of cutting a single corner in getting to the finish line." The $65 million musical was dreamed up by Tony Award-winning director and co-writer Julie Taymor and U2's Bono and The Edge, who wrote the music. More than eight years in the making, delays and money woes have plagued the show's launch. In addition, three accidents have injured actors, including one who had both his wrists broken while practicing an aerial stunt.
The first preview on Nov. 28 did not go well. The musical had to be halted five times because of technical glitches and actress Natalie Mendoza - who plays Spider-Man's evil love interest Arachne - was hit in the head by a rope and suffered a concussion. Her injury would eventually keep her sidelined for two weeks.
