The summer season at the Open Air Theatre, Regent's Park is to kick off with a new production of Leonard Bernstein, Betty Comden, and Adolph Green's 1944 Broadway musical On the Town, beginning performances May 19, 2017, prior to an official opening May 25, for a run through July 1.

It will be directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie, Olivier winner for his choreography of the current London production of In the Heights and who also previously choreographed this year's revival of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Open Air Theatre. He is currently directing and choreographing Strictly Ballroom, to open at West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds in December.

It will be followed by two productions presented under the umbrella title Dickens Uncovered, which brings two of Charles Dickens’ most popular stories out in the open. Timothy Sheader, artistic director of the Open Air Theatre, directs A Tale of Two Cities, a new play by Matthew Dunster adapted from the original novel by Dickens, beginning performances July 7 prior to an official opening July 13, for a run through August 5.

Carolyn Byrne will also direct a new version of Oliver Twist, created for everyone aged six and over by Anya Reiss, for morning and matinee performances beginning July 17, prior to an official opening July 23, for a run through August 5.

Finally, as previously announced, Jesus Christ Superstar will return to the theatre, beginning performances August 11 for a run though September 16.

Priority booking for members opens November 22, with public booking from December 15. To book ticket contact the box office on 0844 826 4242 or visit openairtheatre.com.