Tom Hanks Stars in New Play at The Shed

Tom Hanks will star in and co-write 'This World of Tomorrow,' an off-Broadway play premiering at The Shed in New York from October 30 to December 21. Inspired by Hanks's 2017 short story collection 'Uncommon Type,' the play follows Bert Allenberry, a future scientist who repeatedly travels back to the 1939 World’s Fair in Queens in search of true love. Directed by Tony Award winner Kenny Leon, the production will be held in the Griffin Theater's 550-seat venue and features a cast of 10 to 12 actors, some playing multiple roles. Hanks developed the play over the past year with frequent collaborator James Glossman, with strong support from The Shed's artistic director, Alex Poots. This marks Hanks's first stage role since his Tony-nominated appearance in 'Lucky Guy' in 2013. The play blends elements of romance, history, and science fiction, exploring themes of love, longing, and the lasting impact of the past.