Stephen Cole (book/lyrics)  and the late Claibe Richardson (music) adapted Davis Grubb's dark 1954 novel into the musical, which originally premiered in 2004. Cheryl Denson stages the Dallas production, featuring a full 24-piece orchestra, that will run through Nov. 7 at the Irving Arts Center.

Gaines (The Phantom of the Opera) is cast as conniving prison inmate Harry Powell opposite Lyric Stage veteran Julie Johnson (Sweeney Todd; Hello, Dolly!) as Willa Harper in the West Virginia-set musical.

The cast also features Jack Vangorden, Lois Sonnier Hart, Marlhy Murphy, Sonny Franks, Susan Metzger, Doug Jackson, Deborah Brown, Steven D. Morris, Stephanie Spaulding, Vicki Dean, Shelbie Mac, Lily Monday, Dani Altshuler, Eric Daniel Aultman, Dayton Spencer Dobbs, Daniel R. Johnson, Keith J. Warren and James Williams.

According to Lyric Stage, "Ben Harper steals ten thousand dollars. Just before being sent to prison he hides the money in his daughter’s doll, setting in motion a thrilling, frightening, and heartfelt story. For sharing Ben’s prison cell is Harry Powell, aka The Preacher, who will do anything to get his hands on the stolen money. Anything, including murder."

Scott A. Eckert serves as music director for Night of the Hunter, which employs a full orchestra. The production has scenic design by Scott Osborne, lighting design by Julie Simmons Moroney and costume design by Drenda Lewis.

The Night of the Hunter earned a 2000 Kleban Award, as well as an NEA grant for development. A 1998 concept cast album of The Night of the Hunter was also released.

For tickets phone (972) 252-2787 or visit LyricStage.