This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
I know I'm not alone when I say that I've wiled away many a lonely night wondering why nobody has turned Tupac Shakur's life into a musical. It would be just like "West Side Story," I always imagine, only fewer leather jackets.
Well, I'm pleased to report that someone with some authority has finally taken action on this pressing concern -- All Hip-Hop News reports that a musical about the West Coast rap icon is now being cast in New York.
The musical, called "Holler If Ya Hear Me," will be more about Shakur's music, and less about creating an autobiographical account of his life. It will be directed by three-time Tony Award winner Kenny Leon, and the story has been approved by Tupac's mother, Afeni Shakur.
Any L.A. actors (does such a thing exist??) who want to hop on the Shakur-meets-Broadway bandwagon will need to get their cross-country tickets asap -- an open casting call will be held on Saturday, March 10.
