Donald Rupe's new musical 'From Here' premieres Off-Broadway at the Pershing Square Signature Center on Saturday, June 29. The production's performance started on Thursday, June 27, and will run until Sunday, Aug. 11.
'From Here,' set in 2016, follows Daniel, a gay man in his 30s who learns to manage life, love, and family after the Pulse Nightclub shooting permanently changes him and his community. Over 300 people were inside Orlando's Pulse LGBT nightclub when a gunman began fire at around 2 am on June 12, 2016. This attack against the LGBTQIA+ community was among the deadliest in the history of the country.
The New York run is led by Blake Aburn as Daniel, Becca Southworth as Becca, and Omar Cardona as Ricky. Rupe (Flying Lessons) wrote the book, music, and lyrics. Michelle Coben (Flying Lessons) plays Jordan, while Jullien Aponte (Milk) plays Michael.
The rest of the cast includes Justin Jimenez, Chris Keough, Devin Skorupski, Dee Quintero, Jerry Mullings, and Kyle Ashe Wilkinson. Understudies are Janine Papin and Kyle Ashe Wilkinson. All cast members are reprising their roles from the world premiere run earlier this year at Orlando's the Ren.
Orchestrations and arrangements are by Jason M. Bailey. The band features four members, including Noah Baez on keys, Bryce Hayes on bass, Chris Kampmeier on drums, and Matthew Lynxwiler on electric and acoustic guitars.
In a statement, Rupe said, "For me, theatre is such an important part of healing and learning, and art can play an important role in honoring and remembering even the worst parts of history."
He noted that they hope that 'From Here' will have a long-lasting effect on its audiences and that those who see it will learn from these life-changing moments, be moved by the people they meet, and honor and remember them moving forward.
Furthermore, the production features scenic and lighting design by Philip Lupo, sound design by Matt Craig, costume design and stage management by J. Marie Bailey, and vocal direction by Chris Keough. Choreography is by Adonus Mabry. General management is by Maximum Entertainment Productions. Marketing and advertising are by Situation Interactive. The casting is by Kayla Kelsay Morales.
