Hugh Jackman said to be rehearsing 'Harry Houdini'

Even though he hasn’t been officially announced in the role, actor Hugh Jackman is reported to be in New York rehearsing the forthcoming Broadway musical, Harry Houdini. (This appears to be a new title. Until now, it was referred to as Houdini: An Original Musical.)

A source said: "Hugh is taking his role very seriously! He's even studying how to perform Houdini's magic acts. Hugh has been receiving tips and help from great magicians such as Criss Angel and Ricky Jay."

Jackman will have to recreate the same tricks live on stage eight times a week once the production opens in New York in spring 2010.

Scott Sanders and David Rockwell will produce Harry Houdini, which features a book by best-selling author Kurt Andersen and music by Danny Elfman. Tony Award winner Jack O'Brien is attached to direct.