Legendary rock band Foreigner is teaming up with Long Island University’s Post Theatre Company and the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts to bring a brand-new musical to the stage: Feels Like The First Time: The Foreigner Musical.  Foreigner will also perform at a special benefit concert on September 5, 2025, at the 2,200-seat Tilles Center, hosted by original lead singer Lou Gramm.

The original production will be directed by Broadway veteran Adam Pascal—known for roles in Rent, Aida, Cabaret, Chicago, and Something Rotten. Pascal also holds the distinction of being LIU’s first-ever Artist-in-Residence.  The musical will feature 14 of Foreigner’s most well-loved songs, with the fully produced world premiere scheduled to run from April 17-26, 2026, at the Little Theatre on LIU’s campus.  Said Pascal: “I’m proud to be directing this project and thrilled to be LIU’s first Artist-in-Residence. Having grown up on these songs, it’s incredibly meaningful to help bring this musical to life.”

Foreigner’s manager Phil Carson said of the project: “We’re proud to collaborate with LIU’s emerging theatrical talent to give our music new life on stage. Feels Like The First Time celebrates the timeless quality of Foreigner’s hits in a brand-new way.”

Tom Dunn, Executive & Artistic Director of the Tilles Center and Dean of the College of Arts & Design at LIU, adds: “This marks the launch of our New Works Initiative—a new effort between Tilles Center and LIU to create original stage productions. What better way to start than with Foreigner’s iconic music and the involvement of our talented students and local community.”

Mick Jones, Foreigner’s founding member and primary songwriter, said, “When I wrote ‘Feels Like The First Time,’ I never imagined how far it would take us. To see it become the title of a full musical is incredibly rewarding. I’m confident Adam Pascal and the team will craft something special—just in time for Foreigner’s 50th anniversary in 2026.”

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