The Fantasticks: World's longest running musical returns to off-Broadway

A new production of The Fantasticks, the world's longest running musical, is to open Off-Broadway. The musical comedy is to begin previews at the Snapple Theater Center on the 17 Aug 2006, following previews from the 28 Jul 2006.

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.

"It just doesn't seem like New York's theater world is complete without The Fantasticks, and we're thrilled to have the opportunity restore it to its rightful place," producer Steven Baruch said.

There has been 11,103 productions of The Fantasticks in over 3,000 cities and towns throughout the United States. Internationally, more than 700 productions have been staged in 68 nations from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe.

The cast and creative team are to be announced soon.