THE race for best musical at the 2017 Tony Awards is heating up, with the confirmation of one more strong contender before the current season wraps next April.

    Producers announced Wednesday that “Amelie, A New Musical,” will begin previews March 9 at the Walter Kerr Theater, with an official opening set for April 3. Joining previously announced lead Phillipa Soo as Amelie’s love interest Nino is Adam Chanler-Berat, seen on Broadway in “Peter and the Starcatcher” and “Next to Normal.”

    Based on the 2001 French film that became an international box-office sensation, the show features a book by Craig Lucas and music by Daniel Messe of Brooklyn alt-rock band Hem. Messe co-wrote the lyrics with Nathan Tysen. Set in a whimsical version of contemporary Paris, the musical follows the shy Amelie through the magical Montmartre of her imagination, chronicling her dilemma as she discovers that it’s easier to bring joy to others than break free from her own isolation.

    Tony-winner Pam MacKinnon will direct the production, with choreography by Sam Pinkleton. Following the show’s 2015 premiere at Berkeley Repertory Theater, where the title role was played by Samantha Barks, “Hamilton” breakout Soo returns to the role that she originated in early workshops.

    “Amelie” will play a pre-Broadway engagement Dec. 4 through Jan. 15 at the Center Theater Group’s Ahmanson Theater in Los Angeles. The show is produced on Broadway by Harbor Entertainment, Triptyk Studios and Spencer Ross.(SD-Agencies)