The musical began as the seed of an idea when Karen Hines was a member of Tarragon's Playwrights Unit in 1994, according to production notes. In 1999, Hines' Pochsy Productions mounted an independent production in association with the Factory Theatre. Now, Tarragon artistic director Richard Rose has invited Hines to revisit the show.

Writer-performer Hines (director of the Canadian horror clowns Mump & Smoot) penned the musical's book and co-wrote the score with Greg Morrison (he performs live with the show). Hines also appears in the production.

The show is a spin on the classic shop-girl-meets-dashing businessman fable. According to production notes, "Hello...Hello is unsettling and fiercely funny...both a cleverly constructed critique of North American society and a fresh celebration of humanity."

The company includes Aurora Browne, Steven Morel and Peter Oldring. Chris Earle directs. Musical direction and sound design is by Greg Morrison. Designers are John Thompson (set and costumes) and Michel Charbonneau (lighting). Movement is by Mark Christmann.

Opening is Nov. 11. Performances continue to Dec. 14. Tarragon is at 30 Bridgman Avenue in Toronto. For information, call (416) 531-1827 or visit www.tarragontheatre.com.