Come Aug. 1, the Off-Broadway musical I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change will celebrate its second anniversary at the Westside Theatre, but if you haven't seen it in New York, theatregoers can catch a homegrown version at Marriott's Lincolnshire Theatre in suburban Chicago.
After starting previews June 3, Perfect/Change opens June 10 for a run through July 26. The revue about singlehood and coupledom stars Kelly Anne Clark, David Nairn, Sam Samuelson and Chi-side theatre veteran, Hollis Resnik. Joel Bishoff, who staged the original production, directs. Bishoff has also staged the show at NJ's American Stage, CT's Long Wharf, in Toronto, and on the West Coast. Previously, He served as associate director on the national tours of My Fair Lady and The King And I (with Stacy Keach).
Designing the regional mounting are Nancy Missimi (costumes), David Lewis (sound), Diane Ferry Williams (lighting) and Thomas M. Ryan (sets).
Asked why the NY Perfect/Change has remained a strong seller while other productions have fallen by the wayside, NY production spokesperson Jim Randolph said, "It's the ultimate date musical. Couples young and old can find things to relate to in the piece, as it ranges from having a baby to old age. There's even a pick-up at a funeral. It's a show for lovers of all ages."
Joe DiPietro and Jimmy Roberts' songs in Perfect/Change, including "Cantata For A First Date," "Tear Jerk," "A Stud And A Babe," and "I Can Live With That," are available on the show's original cast recording on Varese/Sarabande. Apr. 22, 1997 Di Pietro received the New Voices In American Theatre Award, given by the William Inge Theatre Festival in Independence, KS. He took the honor as an outstanding newcomer to the field.
For tickets ($33-$38) and information on I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change at Marriott's Lincolnshire Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive in Lincolnshire, call (847) 634-0200.
Perfect/Change is the third show of the Marriott season. Following will be Queen of the Stardust Ballroom (July 29-Oct. 4), Finian's Rainbow and The Wizard of Oz (a homegrown version; not the Rooney/Kitt tour).
-- By David Lefkowitz
