Penned by Keith Gordon and Martin Casella, Saint Heaven is the opening production of the Issaquah, WA-based theatre company's 2008-2009 season.

Under the direction of Andrea J. Dymond, the production, which runs through Nov. 23, will star Kingsley Leggs (The Color Purple), Allan Snyder (Les Misérables), Tanesha Ross (Aida), Cynthia Jones (Menopause), Billie Wildrick (5th Avenue's Wonderful Town) and Mark Carr.

The ensemble comprises Julia Black, Antonia Darlene, Tena B. DuBerry, Ekello Harrid, Isaiah D. Parker, Leonard Piggee, Faith Russell, Alanna Saunders, Claire Saunders, Ty Willis, Thaddeus Wilson and Judy A. Young.

Saint Heaven features a country, gospel and R&B-tinged score with music and lyrics by Keith Gordon and a book by Martin Casella. Originally developed through the company's Village Originals series, the musical is based on Steven Lyons novel "The Gift of Tongues."

"Set in the quaint town of Saint Heaven, Kentucky in 1957, this beautiful new musical," press notes state, "tells the soulful story of a young doctor as he returns home to settle his father's affairs and confront the past. Upon his return, he comes face to face with the friends and family he left behind, and encounters a young female preacher with a special spiritual gift. As their journey unfolds, they come together to learn the power of faith, courage, and acceptance." The Village production has scenic and lighting design by Tom Sturge and costume design by Cynthia Savage.

Saint Heaven will play the Francis J. Gaudette Theatre in Issaquah Sept. 17-Oct. 26 and move to the Everett Performing Arts Center Oct. 31-Nov. 23.

For tickets and further information visit VillageTheatre.