Rob Minkoff Directing Film Adaptation of James Chiao's TENOR BY NIGHT

Rob Minkoff, director of 1994's The Lion King, will be bringing James Chiao's musical Tenor by Night to the screen. 

According to Deadline, the movie will be a "whimsical, cross-cultural comedy about a Chinese American businessman who gives up his dreams of becoming a world-famous singer to build a successful mannequin business to support his family. Through a series of magical misadventures, a group of mannequins are brought to life which leads to a second chance to fulfill his dreams."

The adaptation is penned by Peter Barsocchini, who wrote the screenplay for all three High School Musical movies. Arthur Sarkissian, and Julia Jay Pierrepont III serve as producers, with Chiao as executive producer. 

Onstage, Tenor by Night is a fantasy musical, loosely based on author-composer's own life story as a Chinese businessman who immigrated to the United States and overcame the odds and obstacles to realizing his American dream. He founded an internationally successful mannequin business, married to a beautiful wife, and father of two wonderful children. How dare he desire more?

The musical made its world premiere in 2018 at the El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood. Chaio wrote book, music and lyrics for the show.

Photo Credit: Bruce Glikas