BY DAN McMAHON | MARKETING DIRECTOR

All of us at Goodspeed never have imagined "Shall are thrilled to finally re- We Dance?" as a comic open the Opera House pas de deux for a towering and enjoy live musicals beauty and her diminutive once again—and we’re admirer, nor did they sus- sure you are too. After pect that one day a lovelorn 21 months of darkness, young lad might pose the our iconic and much- musical question, "How do loved will once you solve a problem like again buzz with activ- Maria?" But that's precisely ity and sit like a bright the kind of invention lav- white beacon along ished upon this new revue, the Connecticut River. with innovative musical arrangements including a It is fitting that we sultry Andrews Sisters-es- reopen with a cele- que "I'm Gonna Wash That bration of the world’s Man Right Outa My Hair," a favorite musical the- swingin' "Honeybun”, and a atre writing team: jazzy "Kansas City," which Richard Rodgers and leaves no question about Oscar Hammerstein how terrifically up to date II. Since 1943, when the remarkable songs of Oklahoma! debuted, generation after generation remain. has fallen in love with Rodgers & Hammerstein’s music. How could you not with tunes like “Oh, Our production will be directed by a Goodspeed What a Beautiful Mornin',” “Shall We Dance,“ and favorite—Rob Ruggiero (Show Boat, Carousel, “If I Loved You”? These songs and many more Fiddler on the Roof) who no doubt will make this will be performed by a top-list cast and the a bright, fun and joyful evening for all of us. Cho- 7-piece Goodspeed orchestra for our production reography will be provided by Lainie Sakakura. of A Grand Night for Singing: A Celebration of Rodgers & Hammerstein which was originally We’re sure Goodspeed Members will be as hap- conceived by award-winning director and author py as we are to see the “grand old lady” all lit up Walter Bobbie. for another opening night. In the words of Donna Lynn Hilton, Artistic Director and Goodspeed staff When it opened on Broadway in 1994, critics member for over 35 years, “Goodspeed is back were wildly enthusiastic and it was nominated and it’s time to celebrate!” She and Managing for two , including Best Musical. Director David Byrd look forward to seeing all of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II may you at the bottom the stairs after the show.