The Hollywood Reporter brings word that Ansel Elgort is said to be a top contender for a role in an upcoming musical on Hans Christian Andersen. Should Elgort sign on he will portray a young version of of the prolific author who “gets trapped by his own imagination in the worlds of his own making.”
Fox 2000 picked up the original fantasy musical that comes from a number of brilliantly talented creative minds including Stephen Schwartz who is the composer and lyricist of the Broadway hit Wicked. Schwartz will work on the film’s musical components while Mary Poppins Returns writer David Magee is set to pen the script. Chicago producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron are set for producing duties. The duo are currently working on the live television musical adaptation of Jesus Christ Superstar led by John Legend. Elizabeth Gabler and Marisa Paiv will oversee the project for Fox 2000.
Andersen is best known for his iconic children’s fairy tales including The Emperor’s New Clothes and Thumbelina. A number of his works are available in the public domain including The Little Mermaid, The Snow Queen and The Ugly Duckling whose various film adaptations and inspirations contributed to the author’s rise to prominence.
Elgort is a rising star in young Hollywood, starring in such hit films as The Fault In Our Stars and Baby Driver. He is also a talented singer/rapper and recently released a single called “Supernova.” He is currently filming alongside Nicole Kidman in the John Crowley-directed drama The Goldfinch.
No release date for the Andersen project has been announced as of yet.
Are you looking forward to this musical? Let us know in the comments below.
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
