Jonathan Groff Returns to Broadway in The Amish Project

The Amish Project Announces Opening Date

Jonathan Groff, known for his Tony Award winning roles in Spring Awakening and Hamilton, is set to headline a new solo production titled The Amish Project. The show will open at the historic Broadhurst Theatre on Wednesday, February 10, 2027. Producers Robert Ahrens and Tom Kirdahy revealed the details in a press release earlier this week.

Creative Team Behind the Solo Play

The script was penned by playwright Jessica Dickey, whose recent work has explored themes of identity and community. Direction is being handled by Sarna Lapine, a veteran of both stage and television whose credits include numerous Broadway productions. Their collaboration promises a nuanced portrayal of Amish life through a single performer’s lens.

What Audiences Can Expect

Unlike traditional ensemble pieces, The Amish Project relies on Groff’s ability to embody multiple characters and narratives within a single performance. The play weaves together historical anecdotes, personal testimonies, and contemporary reflections on faith and modernity. Critics anticipate a blend of humor, pathos, and cultural insight.

Solo performance by Jonathan Groff
Written by Jessica Dickey
Directed by Sarna Lapine
Produced by Robert Ahrens and Tom Kirdahy
Opening night: February 10, 2027
Venue: Broadhurst Theatre, New York City

Background on the Amish Narrative

The Amish community has rarely been the focus of mainstream theater. Encyclopedia Britannica describes the group as a network of autonomous churches that value simplicity and separation from modern technology. Dickey’s script draws on oral histories collected over several years, offering a rare glimpse into daily life, rituals, and the challenges faced by Amish families in a rapidly changing world.

Historical Context

Founded in the early 18th century by Swiss Anabaptist migrants, the Amish have maintained a distinct cultural identity through language, dress, and communal practices. Their story intersects with broader American themes of religious freedom and immigration.

Contemporary Relevance

In recent decades, the Amish have been the subject of documentaries and news features that explore issues such as education, technology, and legal disputes. The New York Times highlighted how some communities negotiate the balance between tradition and modern pressures.

Jonathan Groff’s Return to the Stage

Groff’s last Broadway appearance was in the revival of Little Shop of Horrors in 2022, where he received praise for his vocal range and comic timing. His decision to take on a solo role marks a significant artistic shift. In a recent interview, Groff said he was drawn to the project because of its intimate storytelling format and the opportunity to explore a character-driven narrative that differs from his previous musical roles.

Career Highlights

Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for Spring Awakening
Broadway debut in Hamilton as King George III
Acclaimed performance in the television series Mindhunter
Voice work as Kristoff in Disney’s Frozen

Production Details and Ticket Information

Tickets will go on sale next month through the official Broadway ticketing platform. Pricing is expected to range from $85 for upper‑level seats to $250 for premium orchestra tickets. Early buyers may benefit from a limited‑time discount code released by the producers.

For those interested in behind‑the‑scenes insights, the production team plans a series of pre‑show talks featuring Jessica Dickey and Sarna Lapine. These events will be held on select evenings and will require separate registration.

Critical Anticipation and Industry Reaction

The announcement has generated buzz across theater circles. The Broadway League listed the production as a “must see” in its upcoming season preview. Playbill’s editorial team highlighted the project as a bold experiment in solo performance, noting Groff’s “magnetic stage presence” as a key draw.

Industry analysts predict that the show could attract both traditional theatergoers and fans of Groff’s film and television work, potentially expanding the demographic reach of Broadway audiences.

What This Means for Broadway’s Future

The success of a solo play featuring a high‑profile star may encourage producers to explore more intimate formats amid rising production costs. As the theater community continues to adapt after the pandemic, innovative storytelling approaches like The Amish Project could become a template for future ventures.

Regardless of box office outcomes, the collaboration of a Tony Award winner, a respected playwright, and an experienced director underscores Broadway’s commitment to artistic risk‑taking and cultural dialogue.