Tony Winner Joshua Henry to Star in Original Musical 'The Conversation'

Fresh off his recent Tony Award win, Joshua Henry is set to headline the new Off-Broadway musical *The Conversation* alongside co-writer Julia Harriman. Directed by Tony winner Kenny Leon, the production is scheduled for a 10-week engagement at the Astor Place Theatre, with previews beginning November 17 and an official opening on December 7. The musical, which features a book by Nick Green, explores the complexities of a seven-year romantic relationship.

The project represents a significant creative milestone for both leads, who began developing the concept four years ago after meeting during the national tour of *Hamilton*. For Henry, the show serves as a pivot back to his musical roots in soul and R&B, allowing him to showcase his versatility beyond the Broadway revivals that have defined much of his recent career. For Harriman, the production is a reclamation of her artistic agency, providing a platform to perform the music she loves after facing industry typecasting throughout her career.

This production is particularly noteworthy for its focus on original storytelling in an industry often dominated by revivals. By leveraging Henry’s newfound momentum from his Tony win, the production team aims to draw audiences to a deeply personal, character-driven narrative. The musical’s exploration of the endurance and evolution of long-term partnerships offers a grounded, contemporary contrast to the large-scale spectacles typically found on the New York stage, highlighting a growing trend of performers creating their own vehicles to bypass traditional casting limitations.