‘Amelie’ to become stage musical with songs by Hem musician

“Amélie,” the whimsical 2001 French film starring Audrey Tautou, will become a stage musical with songs by composer Dan Messé, who has revealed the news on the Facebook page of his band, the Brooklyn-based Hem.

The musical, which has no dates attached, is being co-written with playwright Craig Lucas and co-lyricist Nathan Tysen. Messé recently wrote on Facebook: “So not the best kept secret, but still I’m happy to announce that I’ve been commissioned to adapt the film ‘Amélie’ for Broadway... Can’t wait to share it with you!”

“Amélie” -- whose full French title is “Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain” (“The Fabulous Destiny of Amélie Poulain”) -- tells the story of a sprightly young Parisian woman (Tautou) who becomes involved in the lives of her eccentric neighbors. The movie, directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, was an international hit, receiving multiple honors at France’s César Awards as well as five Academy Award nominations.

CRITICS’ PICKS: What to watch, where to go, what to eat

Messé has worked in the theater before, having collaborated with his Hem bandmates on the music for the Public Theater’s 2009 production of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” in Central Park.

In a recent interview with Paste Magazine, Messé said, “I’m not interested in doing Parisian music. I don’t think I’m even going to use accordion in my score.” He told the magazine he has to finish the first draft of the musical by Labor Day.

The production would be the latest in a growing line of film properties to be turned into stage musicals. Recent crossovers include such Tony Award winners “Kinky Boots,” “Billy Elliot” and “Once.”

ALSO:

Beatles musical ‘Let It Be’ closing early on Broadway

Unauthorized play about Oscar-winner Haing S. Ngor causes friction

Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart on ‘No Man’s Land,’ parallel paths