Bernstein's 'On The Town' B'way revival exp Oct 2014

A Broadway revival of the 1944 musical On The Town is expected to begin performances at the newly named Lyric Theatre (formerly Foxwoods) in October 2014.

The musical comedy was conceived by the legendary creative team of Leonard Bernstein, Betty Comden and Adolph Green, inspired by the Jerome Robbins ballet 'Fancy Free', and opened at the Adelphi Theater in 1944. Its score includes Broadway standards such as 'New York, New York', 'I Can Cook Too', 'Lonely Town' and 'Some Other Time'.

The new production will be directed by Tony Award-winning Director John Rando (Urinetown), with choreography by Emmy Award-winning Joshua Bergasse (Smash), scenic design by Tony nominee Beowulf Boritt (Act One, Chaplin, Rock of Ages), lighting design by Jason Lyons (Bring it On, Rock of Ages), costume design by Tony Award winner Jess Goldstein (Newsies, Jersey Boys, The Rivals), and sound design by Tony nominee Kai Harada (Follies, Million Dollar Quarter). The production will be produced by Howard and Janet Kagan.

After its renovation and renaming, the Lyric Theatre (formerly Foxwoods) will re-open for the Broadway revival of On The Town 70 years after its Broadway premiere. Producers Howard and Janet Kagan released the following statement: "We couldn't be more thrilled to make the Lyric Theatre our home for On The Town. This classic Broadway theatre, right on 42nd Street in the heart of Times Square, is the perfect spot, and now is the perfect time to bring this big, brassy musical comedy back to The Great White Way."

Synopsis: 'The Bronx is up, the Battery's down, and three sailors are hoping to get just a little bit lucky on their one day of leave in the Big Apple. From the Brooklyn Navy Yard and Coney Island to Times Square and Carnegie Hall, 'On The Town' zigzags through New York City as the sailors and the three high-spirited young women they meet chase love, dreams, and each other during an unforgettable day in the city that never sleeps.

Casting and dates are still to be confirmed.

- by Tom Millward