Love Song: Kristen Johnston ill, Molly Regan takes over temporarily.

Love Song: Kristen Johnston ill, Molly Regan takes over temporarily.

Kristen Johnston was taken seriously ill last Wednesday night (6 Dec) with an erupted duodenal ulcer which had to be operated on immediately. Therefore, Molly Regan, who played Joan in the world premiere of John Kolvenbach's new comedy drama Love Song for Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago, in June, has temporarily taken over the role of Joan.

A press statement says, "...Although she [Kristen Johnston] is determined to return to the production as soon as she can, once discharged from hospital the producers anticipate that she will need a period of recovery. However, it is expected that she will be able to return to the production before Christmas."

The rest of the cast remains unchanged: Neve Campbell (Molly), Michael McKean (Harry), Cillian Murphy (Beane) .

Love Song opened at the New Ambassadors Theatre on 4 Dec 2006, following previews from 25 Nov, to reasonable notices from, the popular press: THE DAILY TELEGRAPH says, "Outstanding...funny, touching and profound...beautifully judged and splendidly acted production." THE EVENING STANDARD says, "Blush-makingly trite." THE GUARDIAN says, "Attenuated whimsy." THE TIMES says, "This is an intelligent play with a wise ending."

It is directed by John Crowley, designed by Scott Pask, lighting by Howard Harrison.

Produced by Sonia Friedman Productions, Robert Bartner for Tulchin/Bartner Productions and Bob Boyett.

Beane is an exile from life - an oddball. His well-meaning sister Joan and brother-in-law Harry try and make time for him in their busy lives, but no one can get through. Following a burglary on his apartment, Joan is baffled to find her brother blissfully happy and tries to unravel the story behind Beane's mysterious new love Molly.

Love Song is currently taking booking to 3 March 2007.