Algonquin Theater Productions, which is producing the musical, plans to take National Pastime to Broadway in the 2010-2011 season. Algonquin will stage the show regionally following the one-day-only Hall of Fame production, although the details have not been announced.
The musical tells the story of WZBQ, a radio station on the verge of bankruptcy in 1933 Iowa. "To spark ratings," according to production notes, "the station re-invents a long-defunct local baseball team and WZBQ begins to broadcast phony baseball games as though real."
Tom Herman will direct the presentation at the Hall of Fame with David Wolfson providing musical direction.
Sportiello's play Contract Time was produced at the Hall of Fame in 1992. Tapper's credits include Sessions and An Evening at the Carlyle.
The 200-seat Grandstand Theater is located at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum at 25 Main Street in Cooperstown. Visit community.baseballhall.org.