The production, which began previews Nov. 14, 2008, was originally scheduled to run through Jan. 25, 2009. The new musical — part of the DR2 Kids series — will now play the Off-Broadway venue through April 19. Timothy McDonald directs.
The cast features Janice Mays in the title role with Tyler Adcock, Gordon Maniskas, Ernie Pruneda, Morgan Rose, Doug Thompson, Shannon Tyo and Katie Whetsell.
Dear Edwina features music by Goldrich and book and lyrics by Heisler. The musical, according to press notes, concerns 13-year-old heroine, Edwina Spoonapple, who "decides that she and her pals will [put on a show]. Edwina's special talent is giving advice, and she would do almost anything to be a part of the Kalamazoo Advice-a-palooza Festival. When a talent scout visits her hometown of Paw Paw, Michigan, Edwina — assisted by a host of quirky friends and neighbors — enthusiastically sings out her musical advice in hopes of finding her own special place in the spotlight. Together Edwina and chums set out to tackle a plethora of problems, in numbers about everything from birthday party etiquette to the proper way to set a table."
The creative team also includes musical director Mark Hartman, choreographer Steven G. Kennedy, scenic designer Court Watson, lighting designer Kathryn Furst and costume designer Theresa Squire. Joe Kinosian is the pianist/conductor for the production with Nicole Marcus as the drummer.
The musical, recommended for ages 5-12, is 60 minutes in length. PS Classics released the world-premiere recording of Dear Edwina Nov. 11. The recording features Xanadu Tony nominee Kerry Butler as Edwina with Rebecca Luker (Mary Poppins), Danny Burstein (South Pacific, The Drowsy Chaperone), Terrence Mann (Les Miz, Beauty and the Beast), Andrea Burns (In the Heights), Jeff Blumenkrantz (A Class Act, How to Succeed…), Telly Leung (Rent, Flower Drum Song) plus nine other performers.
Tickets are available by calling (212) 239-6200 or by visiting www.dearedwina.com. Tickets may also be purchased at the DR2 box office, 103 East 15th Street.
