Justin Guarini, Original 'Idol' Runner-up, to Portray Patti LuPone's Son Onstage

[Brian Damage]

Making his Broadway debut, Justin Guarini -- the singer with the infectious smile who lost to Kelly Clarkson on the very first season of 'American Idol' -- has just won a key role in the upcoming Broadway musical 'Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown.' According to the Los Angeles Times, the production (based on the 1988 Pedro Almodovar comedy costarring Antonio Banderas) is scheduled to open Nov. 4 at New York's Lincoln Center, with preview performances beginning in October.

Lead performers already cast in the new adaptation include Broadway veterans Patti LuPone, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Sherie Rene Scott and Laura Benanti.

Guarini, who starred in the 2003 musical movie flop 'From Justin to Kelly' shortly after his rise to fame on 'Idol,' will reportedly play the role of Carlos, son of Lucia (LuPone) -- a role originated onscreen by Banderas. According to some reports, after starring in an early staging of the Beach Boys-themed musical 'Good Vibrations,' Guarini was offered a role in the 2005 Broadway production, but turned the job down.

Broadway producers have welcomed 'Idol' alums with open arms, and some have received raves for their work, including season 3 champ Fantasia Barrino ('The Color Purple'). Last week, season 6 champ Jordin Sparks made her Broadway debut, when she joined the Tony-winning musical 'In the Heights.'

http://www.popeater.com/2010/08/22/j...pone-broadway/