A new musical adaptation of Neil Gaiman's book "Coraline" has been cancelled following sexual misconduct allegations against the renowned author. The cancellation comes after eight women accused Gaiman of misconduct, with four of them contributing to an investigation conducted by Tortoise Media. New York Magazine and its website, Vulture, reported these allegations in mid-January, prompting significant repercussions for both the author and the scheduled theatrical production.
The musical, described as "a darkly imaginative, richly rendered fantasy story," was set to premiere at Leeds Playhouse in April. It was then planned to tour Edinburgh's Royal Lyceum Theatre, the Birmingham Rep, and Manchester's Home. Written by playwright Zinnie Harris with music by Louis Barabbas, the show was anticipated to be a highlight of the theatrical season. However, the emergence of these allegations left the theatres with no option but to cancel the production.
Neil Gaiman, 64, has denied the allegations, asserting that he has "never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with anyone." He expressed deep concern upon learning about the latest accusations, stating he read them with "horror and dismay." Furthermore, he acknowledged that the claims include "moments I half-recognise and moments I don't," indicating his surprise and confusion over the details.
The decision to scrap the musical was not taken lightly. It leaves a significant void in the schedules and financial plans of the four theatres involved. Beyond the theatre world, Dark Horse Comics has also responded by cancelling forthcoming releases of Gaiman's graphic novels and comic books, further reflecting the widespread impact of these allegations on his career.
The news of these accusations has sent shockwaves through the literary and artistic communities. The allegations, having been made public in recent weeks, have seriously affected Gaiman's reputation and professional engagements. The initial decision to cancel the musical was announced last May, but it was not until these new allegations surfaced that a final decision was made to terminate the production.
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