The Fantasticks: Robert R. Oliver steps into the role of Mortimer

Robert R. Oliver steps into the role of Mortimer in the new production of the musical comedy The Fantasticks for six-weeks, as MacIntyre Dixon recuperates from a torn achilles tendon.

MacIntyre Dixon's temporary replacement will not change the schedule for the show, with the production still opening at the Snapple Theater Center on the 16 Aug 2006, where it began previews on 29 Jul 2006.

Robert R. Oliver is a veteran of Off- B'way and has appeared in its two longest- running hits - 'Tony n' Tina's Wedding' and 'The Fantasticks'.

The musical also stars Thomas Bruce as Henry, Leo Burmester as Hucklebee, Santino Fontana as Matt, Sara Jean Ford as Luisa, James Moye as El Gallo, Douglas Ullman, Jr. as The Mute and Martin Vidnovic as Bellomy.

The Fantasticks tells the story of a young boy and girl who fall madly in love at the hands of their meddling fathers, but soon grow restless and stray from one another. Will their separation provide a deeper appreciation for the love they once shared or create a permanent gulf between them?

This musical love story features music by Harvey Schmidt and book and lyrics by Tom Jones. Jones will also direct The Fantasticks, which was originally directed by Word Baker.

The musical comedy originally opened at New York's Sullivan Street Playhouse on the 3 May 1960 and played 17,162 performances before closing on the 13 Jan 2002, making it the world's longest running musical.