Press Democrat: ‘Groundhog Day,’ the musical, is based on film. Here we go again
January 28, 2025, 12:00 PM
The term “Groundhog Day,” meaning a monotonous, unpleasant, and repetitive situation, has become part of the English lexicon.
The musical version of the play made its world premiere at the Old Vic in London in the summer of 2016 and later opened in 2017 on Broadway, where it was nominated for seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
And the local production of the musical runs Jan. 31 through Feb. 23 at the 6th Street Playhouse in Santa Rosa, directed by Sonoma County live theater veteran David Lear.
“’Groundhog Day’ the musical is much better than the movie,” Lear said. “It goes into more depth with the character of Phil Connors. The characterization is very detailed.”
Lear chose to double-cast two actors in the lead role of Phil Connors, played by Murray in the film. Nelson Brown and Garet Waterhouse will be alternating in the part during the run of the show.