Kerry Washington heads to Broadway after 'Scandal' wraps

June 8 (UPI) -- Kerry Washington and Steven Pasquale are to star in the Broadway premiere of Christopher Demos-Brown's play American Son this fall.

Kenny Leon is to direct the drama, which will begin previews Oct. 6 at the Booth Theatre, a news release said. An official opening night is planned for Nov. 4.

"A Florida police station in the middle of the night; a mother searching for her missing teenage son," a synopsis said. "American Son is a gripping tale of two parents caught in our national divide, with their worst fears hanging in the balance."

"Christopher Demos-Brown has written a play that dives deep into the big questions of who we are as a nation, by exploring the intimate relationships within a family caught at the crossroads of love, loss, identity and community," Washington said in a statement Friday. "After reading the script, I was immediately enthralled by the world of the play and the gripping circumstances that these characters are facing. I am excited to step into the ring with Kenny and Steve to tell this story on Broadway."

Washington recently wrapped her seventh and final season on the ABC drama Scandal. She previously appeared on Broadway in 2009's Race and is confirmed as a presenter for Sunday's Tony Awards ceremony, which honors excellence in theater.

Best known for his work in the FX series Rescue Me, Pasquale's Broadway credits include Junk and The Bridges of Madison County.