Celia began previews Aug. 28, 2007, and officially opened Sept. 26. When it closes, the production will have played a total of 25 previews and 269 regular performances.

In a recent statement Celia producer Henry Cardenas said, "It's never easy to end a show, especially one this special. My hat's off to the cast, the crew and the audiences, who night after night helped bring Celia back to life in such a magical way.

"While we are ending our New York engagement for now, we're thrilled to take Celia to different parts of the world, where we hope fans of 'The Queen of Salsa' will create the same genuine setting that we enjoyed at the New World Stages."

Based on the life of the legendary Cuban artist, Celia currently stars Annisa Gathers in the title role with Modesto Lacen as Pedro Knight, Selenis Leyva as a Woman and Pedro Capo as the Nurse with Sunilda Carabello, Grizel "Chachi" Del Valle, Sekou McMiller, Wilson Mendieta, Elvis Nolasco and Sonja Perryman.

Following its New York run, Celia will begin its world tour in Miami at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, running June 18-July 6. For more information on additional cities, visit www.celiathemusical.com. Celia is written by Carmen Rivera and Candido Tirado, directed by Jaime Azpilicueta and co-produced by David Maldonado.

Celia, according to press notes, "is the story of an artist's love for her country revealed through a musical life that spans for more than 60 years. Throughout her career, Cruz faces constant successes as well as challenges. As a young woman, she defies her father's opposition to become a singer and conspires with her mother to accomplish her dream. As her fame increases, so does the price of her success. She shares her victories and disillusions with the love of her life, Pedro Knight, and dreams of one day returning to her country. However, that dream is challenged when she is denied a visa to visit her dying mother, and then realizes that she may never again return to her beloved Cuba."

The production features set design by Narelle Sissons, lighting design by Sarah Sidman, projection design by Jan Hartley, sound design by Bernard Fox, costume design by Haydee Morales and hair and make-up design by Ruth Sanchez. Isidro Infante penned the music arrangements and orchestration.

Celia Cruz, who was born in Havana, Cuba, in October 1924, died July 16, 2003, in Fort Lee, NJ. She was the recipient of seven Grammy Awards.

Tickets are available by calling (212) 239-6200 or by visiting www.telecharge.com.

New World Stages is located in Manhattan at 340 West 50th Street.