NEW YORK — Andrew Lloyd Webber has tapped a favorite actress to play the school principal in the musical stage version of "School of Rock."
Sierra Boggess, who has played Christine in "The Phantom of the Opera" in London and New York, will play Joan Cusack's role onstage opposite Alex Brightman, playing the lovable rocker who poses as a substitute teacher at a tony prep school.
The musical version of the 2003 film starring Jack Black will start in early November, with an opening set for Dec. 6. Webber and lyricist Glenn Slater will write new music to be added to some songs featured in the movie.
The story will be adapted by Julian Fellowes, who created "Downton Abbey," and be directed by Laurence Connor, who co-directed the latest "Les Miserables" on Broadway.