The production will officially open July 24; performances continue through Sept. 6. Fabrique is joined by George Caldwell (music director/conductor/piano), Ron Haynes (trumpet/Louis Armstrong), Rodney Harper (drums), Clifton Kellem (bass) and Harold Dixon (Norman Granz). Joilet Harris is the understudy for Fabrique.

Ella, which was conceived by Rob Ruggiero and Dyke Garrison, features a book by Jeffrey Hatcher and musical supervision/arrangements by Danny Holgate. Ruggiero also directs.

"It's 1966 and the fabled songstress is preparing for one of the most important concerts of her career," according to press notes, "As she jams with the musicians and gets ready to meet the audience, Ella reflects on her life, her secrets and the love of music that made her soar." The show features more than 20 songs, including "A Tisket, A Tasket," "How High the Moon," "That Old Black Magic" and "They Can't Take That Away from Me."

The artistic team also includes Michael Schweikardt (set designer), Alejo Vietti (costume designer), John Lasiter (lighting designer), Michael Miceli (sound designer), Charles LaPoint (wig designer), Richard Costabile (stage manager) and Elizabeth R. McNally (assistant stage manager).

The Guthrie is located at 818 South 2nd Street (at Chicago Avenue), in downtown Minneapolis. To purchase tickets call (612) 377-2224 or visit www.guthrietheater.org.