A tragic story founded in truth has been reimagined and written for the stage by Tony Award-winning playwright John Logan, with music and lyrics contributed by the Avett Brothers. The production began showing previews on November 25, 2023, before officially opening on December 6, 2023. Directed by the Tony Award-winning Michael Mayer, with choreography by Hadestown choreographer David Neumann, and starring Tony Award-winning John Gallagher Jr and Broadway star Stark Sands, we couldn't wait to hear what the critics think of the musical; let's dive in!

"With a star-studded cast oozing with Broadway credits, an award-winning director, and famous song writers, Swept Away clearly has an eye north up I-95." - Broadway World

"award-winning director"

"With elite talent across the board, a truly stunning score, and a masterful set, SWEPT AWAY has tremendous potential as a production with an eye for Broadway" - Broadway World 

"potential as a production with an eye for Broadway"

"In this maiden musical theater voyage, Swept Away makes a strong case that the band's musical style lends itself naturally to dramatization and holds great potential to make a splash.." - The DC Line

"great potential to make a splash"

"While "Swept Away" treads familiar disaster-survivalist ground, Arena Stage's already-extended production should still excite theatre junkies, The Avett Brothers' fans, and anyone longing for a cry." - Maryland Theatre Guide

What's Swept Away about?

In 1888 a whaling ship was sunk off the coast of New Bedford Massachusetts by a raging and violent storm. Four men survive, a tenured sea captain, his disgraced first mate, and two brothers, the older who has sworn to protect the younger. How will they fare on their journey to redemption?