Breslin to play Helen Keller on B'way

NEW YORK, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. actress Abigail Breslin is set to play Helen Keller in the first Broadway revival of "The Miracle Worker," the show's producers said Wednesday.

Based on a true story, the 1880s-set play will co-star Alison Pill as blind and deaf Helen's teacher, Annie Sullivan. The role will mark Breslin's stage debut, as well as the 50th anniversary of the play's opening on Broadway. The original production starred Patty Duke and Anne Bancroft, who reprised their roles in the 1962 film version.

Breslin's film credits include "Raising Helen," "Little Miss Sunshine" and "Zombieland."

Pill has appeared on stage in "The Lieutenant of Inishmore" and "Mauritius."

"The Miracle Worker" is to be staged in the round for the first time at Manhattan's Circle in the Square Theatre. Previews are to begin Feb. 12 toward an official opening March 3. Additional casting will be announced shortly, said a news release.