Hanks and O'Hara to Reunite on Broadway for 2027 Time-Travel Romance

Key points

• Tom Hanks and Kelli O'Hara will star in 'This World of Tomorrow' on Broadway in fall 2027.
• The play is co-written by Hanks and James Glossman, based on a short story from Hanks' 2017 book 'Uncommon Type'.
• Kenny Leon will direct the production, which will be staged at a Shubert-owned theater to be announced.
• The show previously had a sold-out Off-Broadway run at The Shed in 2025.
• Hanks plays scientist Bert Allenberry, who travels to 1939 to meet Carmen, played by O'Hara.

Background

Tom Hanks last appeared on Broadway in 2013 in Nora Ephron's 'Lucky Guy', for which he received a Tony nomination. The current production, 'This World of Tomorrow', had its world premiere at The Shed Off-Broadway in 2025, where it ran for a sold-out eight-week engagement. Hanks has also been involved in film projects such as 'Greyhound 2' and 'The Comebacker', set for release in 2027.

How outlets are covering it

Playbill emphasizes the thematic depth of the play, quoting Hanks on the idea that history determines when people meet, and highlighting the chemistry between Hanks and O'Hara. Yahoo focuses on the commercial aspect, noting Hanks' 14-year absence from Broadway and his upcoming film projects. Deadline provides additional context from The Shed's Artistic Director, Alex Poots, who praised the play's exploration of love across time, and producer Brian Anthony Moreland, who expressed pride in bringing Hanks' work to Broadway. All sources agree on the fall 2027 opening and the involvement of Kenny Leon as director.

Why it matters

The Broadway transfer of 'This World of Tomorrow' is significant as it marks Tom Hanks' return to the stage after more than a decade, reuniting him with Kelli O'Hara and director Kenny Leon. The play's success Off-Broadway and its thematic focus on love and time travel suggest it will be a notable addition to the 2027 Broadway season, attracting audiences interested in both Hanks' work and new American plays.

What to watch

Complete cast and creative team details for 'This World of Tomorrow' will be announced in the coming months. The production is set to open in fall 2027 at a Shubert-owned theater, with 101 Productions, Ltd. serving as general managers. Hanks and O'Hara will likely promote the show through press events and previews leading up to the opening.