Producers canceled the musical's Nov. 6-9 performances, after Murphy fell ill and was advised by her physician not to perform. During that period, Mugleston prepared to temporarily take over the role. Mugleston gave her first performance as Ruth on Nov. 11 and continued through the next day. Murphy's illness arrived one day after the revival began previews on Nov. 5. Producers Roger Berlind and Barry and Fran Weissler said in a statement at the time, "Despite the enthusiastic response to our first two previews, we felt it prudent to ensure the health of our star and look forward to reopening as soon as possible. We regret this inconvenience and will do everything possible to accommodate the theatre patrons who hold tickets for tonight's performance."

Wonderful Town will officially open Nov. 23. The production marks the first Broadway revival of the 1953 Bernstein-Comden-Green musical and the Broadway directorial debut of choreographer Kathleen Marshall.