Candide will replace the previously announced production of The Wiz. The Bernstein work will fill the same summer slot, running July 8-Aug. 15 in the Unicorn Theatre. An official opening night has been set for July 11. A reason was not provided for the cancellation of The Wiz. BTF artistic director Kate Maguire said in a statement, "Now is the perfect time for Candide. It's a glorious musical and it just seems perfect for the times. In a way, we're all talking about wanting to 'build a house and make our garden grow.'"

Ralph Petillo will direct BTF's Unicorn Company in the work based on Voltaire's "story of a young man's journey of self-discovery as he tries to find his place in a world that appears to be growing increasingly hostile." Candide features a score by Bernstein with a book by Hugh Wheeler.

For subscription and ticket information, call the BTF box office at (413) 298-5536 ext. 33 or visit www.berkshiretheatre.org.