Bening Withdraws from Play
Citing “personal reasons,” Annette Bening has withdrawn from the lead role in “The Female of the Species,” a new play by Joanna Murray-Smith scheduled to play the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles from Feb. 5 - March 16, 2008. No specifics about what those “personal reasons” were.
Geffen Playhouse producing director Gil Cates said, “Live theatre always means surprises. We wanted to communicate Annette’s situation with our subscribers and supporters as soon as possible. We’re exploring a range of options. Stand by for more information – we’ll share it as soon as we have it.”
It was previously announced that “The Female of the Species” will begin previews at a Broadway theatre to be announced April 11, 2008, and officially open April 28. Recent “Spring Awakening” Tony winner Michael Mayer will direct the six-character play, which is being produced by David Richenthal and Mary Beth O’Connor.
A spokesperson for the Geffen told Playbill.com that the producers still plan to bring the production to Broadway; they are currently in the process of re-casting Bening’s role.
