Now, David Bowie has decided to try his hand at show business. It was announced last week that a musical adaption of the 1976 film The Man Who Fell to Earth, will feature some of his new songs. The project, entitled Lazarus, will also have some of Bowie’s new arrangements of older songs.
It marks the glam king following in the footsteps (or boot-steps) of Cindy Lauper, whose musical Kinky Boots became one of the most successful of 2013. Not only did it win some of the most prodigious awards musical theatre has to offer, but it took home a Grammy for Best Musical Theatre Album in 2014.
The original film, The Man Who Fell to Earth, follows the story of an alien who comes to Earth seeking refuge for his people following a terrible drought. Bowie starred as Thomas Jerome Newton in the film, but will not be reprising his role in the stage production. He was originally supposed to compose music for the film as well, but a contractual dispute encouraged producers to go in a different direction.
He will collaborate with Tony-winning playwright Edna Walsh to bring this sci-fi 70s cult classic to life. At this stage, the musical will be shown off-Broadway only later on this year. Its popularity will determine whether it will move to Broadway.
Will Bowie be able to pull a Lauper and make his mark in show business? We shall see when they bring up the curtain.