The theatre, which is based in Beverly, MA, is now under the leadership and ownership of Bill Hanney, who is also the owner/producer of Theatre By The Sea in Rhode Island; and the owner/operator of Entertainment Cinemas, a chain of movie theatres throughout New England.

Evans Haile, the long-time artistic director of the Cape Playhouse, will be North Shore's new producing artistic director.

In a statement Hanney said, "I am honored to welcome audiences back to NSMT for my first season here in Beverly. I am excited to be working with Evans Haile, and know that our team of experienced theatre professionals will operate NSMT with an efficient business model and a strong focus on entertainment and production values.

"My goal for NSMT in 2010 is to create a season that celebrates musical theater and delivers the excellent quality and intimate atmosphere that audiences expect from NSMT. While I am dedicated to maintaining a high level of artistic quality, I am equally dedicated to keeping a close eye on the business to ensure NSMT's long term success. I want audiences to enjoy their experience at the new NSMT and come back for more!"

Following Gypsy, which will run through July 25, will be Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Aug. 3-22), Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (Sept. 21-Oct. 10), A Chorus Line (Nov. 2-21) and A Christmas Carol (Dec. 3-23 under the direction of Jon Kimbell). To subscribe to the season or for more information, contact the NSMT Box Office at (978) 232-7200, log on to www.nsmt.org, or visit in person at 62 Dunham Road, Beverly. Single tickets for all NSMT shows go on sale May 1.