Since it first graced the big screen 15 years ago, The Notebook has been hailed as one of the greatest romantic movies of all time. From its passion-filled storyline to its serene setting in North Carolina, the film has been watched and loved by many.

Which is why the news of Nicholas Sparks’ bestselling book being adapted for Broadway has got us all rather excited.

While co-hosting the Today Show with Hoda Kotb, singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson revealed that she’s currently composing the musical score for it. 

“When I was approached about working on The Notebook I had to excuse myself and go to the bathroom and cry and come back into the meeting,” said Michaelson. “I have loved the movie and the story for so many years now that the idea of turning it into a musical overwhelmed me.

“I cannot wait for the world to hear these characters come to life in a musical way.”

Bekah Brunstetter, a producer for NBC, is writing the show and it will be produced in collaboration with Sparks.

“When I first heard about The Notebook potentially being turned into a musical, I was instantly drawn to the idea,” said Brunstetter. “The story hits home for me in two big ways: it takes place in my home state of North Carolina, and Alzheimer’s runs deep in my family.

“I was sent a few songs Ingrid had already written for it, and that week, I spent my drives to and from work car-listening, memorising, imagining the story unfold with music, imagining how I might layer worlds, dramatize memory, and before I even knew that I had to write the book for this, it was already starting to happen in my head.”

As fans will remember, the love story follows the lives of Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling) and Allie (Rachel McAdams) in the Forties as they fall in love, part ways and later reconnect.

Taking to Twitter, Sparks shared his excitement at the news, too. 

And, of course, fans are equally thrilled.

“You made my year and we are only three days in! I’m beyond thrilled this is happening. My friend and I will definitely be there to see this beautiful story play out on stage! And what an amazing team!” one user posted. 

“Oh my God, great news, hope it’s coming to London UK, if not then guess we will have to pop over there as this is something I cannot miss,” another user wrote. 

Another posted: “SUPER EXCITED!”

No casting or opening date in New York City has been announced yet, but one thing’s for certain: we’ll be booking flights to NY in the coming months.

The evidence of stress in our lives is everywhere, from bad sleep to increased anxiety. So in January 2019, stylist.co.uk is dedicated to creating a life less frazzled. We’ll be focusing on uplifting news, feelgood features and recommendations for fun things to do, with the goal of making you feel calmer and more positive about the coming year.

Images: Rex Features