It was a major coup for Tyrone, Georgia’s Legacy Theatre to stage the world premiere of “Rocket Boys,” which was lauded by the Suzi Bass Awards—Atlanta’s version of the Tonys—as one of the city’s outstanding productions. The 180-seat jewelbox theater, purchased and founded in 2006 by husband and wife team Mark and Bethany Smith, produces Broadway-quality musicals and other productions (currently playing is “Buddy! The Buddy Holly Story”).
“Rocket Boys,” directed by Mark Smith and choreographed by Bethany Smith, features music and lyrics from Carl Anthony Tramon, Dan Tramon, and Diana Belkowski. Co-writing the book is Homer Hickam, Jr., whose 1998 memoir of the same name was a bestseller; “October Sky,” the film based on his book, featured Jake Gyllenhaal as Hickam.
The writer chats with Backstage about his life story and how it inspired both a hit movie and potentially Broadway-bound musical.
What an amazing story your life is! How much do you think destiny has played a part?
It wasn’t straightforward and had lots of twists and turns.... Destiny, kismet, the will of God, whatever it might be called, must have played a part in bringing forth the story of Coalwood and its Rocket Boys. I had a great day job, working for the army and later NASA, but I pursued a writing career—mostly by writing about scuba diving. When Smithsonian “Air & Space Magazine” requested a short article from me, those artifacts led me to write about growing up in Coalwood and launching rockets. My telephone almost melted down: New York publishers, others from Hollywood...all wanted to know if I was going to write a book about my Coalwood adventures. I answered, “I am now!”
How did the movie first come to be made?
A complex situation. The short answer is that the book was optioned—even before it was completely written—by Chuck Gordon, who had produced “Field of Dreams.” The book went on to be a number 1 New York Times bestseller and film.
And what about the musical?
I [was pursuing] a traditional novelist’s career track, writing memoirs and novels, never thinking about writing a play. Several playwrights came to me with the idea of basing a play on “Rocket Boys” but I wasn’t ready until the dynamic sibling trio of Carl, Dan, and Diana Tramon came at me with the idea of a musical. Once I heard some of the music, I was hooked and we were on our way!
How did Georgia’s Legacy Theatre become involved?
Mark and Bethany Smith got wind of the show and contacted us. We immediately said yes! We sensed their great talents and felt Legacy was a great venue to further develop the show.
Legacy Theatre holds regular auditions for both Equity and non-Equity performers and often casts from its extensive theater and dance training programs. For details visit their website.
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