George Street favorite Suzzanne Douglas will star as Georgina, the role originated on Broadway — to Tony-winning effect — by Leslie Uggams. Another Tony winner, Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk star Ann Duquesnay, will play Georgina's mother with Curtiss l'Cook as Clem and Stephen Zinnato as Harvey. The cast will also feature Todd Cerveris, Randy Donaldson, Laurie Gamache, Gerry McIntyre and Crystal Noelle.

  Arthur Laurents, who wrote the show's book, will direct the musical, a co-production with Washington, D.C.'s Arena Stage. In a statement, George Street Artistic Director David Saint said, "It is my honor and pleasure to welcome a genuine living legend and dear friend back to the Playhouse. We are also proud to join with the prestigious Arena Stage in producing this history-making musical theatre event."

With a score by Jule Styne (music) and Adolph Green and Betty Comden (lyrics), Hallelujah, Baby! is set to begin performances at the New Jersey theatre Oct. 6 with an official opening set for Oct. 9. The musical, featuring a new song by the late Styne as well as new orchestrations and an updated and revised book, will run through Nov. 7 before heading to Arena Stage. Amanda Green, daughter of the late Adolph, has penned additional lyrics for the new production, and Laurents has updated the show's book to bring Georgina's journey to the present day.

The creative team comprises Hope Clarke (choreography), David Alan Bunn (musical direction), Jerome Sirlin (set design), David Lander (lighting design), Theoni V. Aldredge (costume design) and Shannon Slaton (sound design).

The George Street Playhouse is located at 9 Livingston Avenue in New Brunswick, NJ. For tickets call (732) 246-7717 or visit www.GSPonline.org.