Full recovery expected
Alley's Death of a Salesman delayed after lead actor James Black pulls out ofproduction
- James Black in a 2010 production of Our TownPhoto by Jann Whaley
- The Alley production of Death of a Salesman has been delayed until at least Oct.6.
The Alley Theatre has announced that its production of Death of a Salesman has been delayed after lead actor James Black pulled out due to an undisclosed health problem.
Black, a longtime Alley favorite, was to have played the demanding role of Willy Loman in the Arthur Miller classic.
Alley officials said all performances have been cancelled at least through Friday.
“I must put my health above all, follow the medical guidance of my doctor, and step away from this role and this great production,” Black said in a statement. “I leave with a heavy heart and apologize for disappointing loyal Alley subscribers and current ticket holders.”
The play was slated to begin previews last night, with an opening on Wednesday. Alley officials said all performances have been cancelled at least through Friday. A first preview and opening date will be announced at a later time. The production is scheduled to run through Oct. 28.
Glenn Fleshler, who understudied the role of Willy Loman in the recent Broadway production, will replace Black. Flesher's Broadway credits include Captain Brice, RN in Tom Stoppard’s Arcadia and Antonio’s man/ensemble in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice.
Alley managine director Dean Gladden said Black is expected to make a full recovery and return to direct the Alley production of A Christmas Carol - A Ghost Story of Christmas, which is scheduled to begin previews on Nov. 16.