Although one of the best reviewed works of the Broadway season, the family-friendly production had a hard time luring theatregoers. Johnson’s exploration, elegy and entertainment on the topic of the ancient art of ventriloquism officially opened at the Hayes Sept. 28. Previews began Sept. 19.

The Broadway production followed a 2004 Off-Broadway run and recent regional engagements in Los Angeles and Boston.

Jay Johnson: The Two and Only! will launch a national tour in spring 2007 at the Majestic Theatre in Dallas, TX, Johnson's hometown.

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Johnson demonstrated his lifelong obsession with a "cast" that included Bob, Amigo, Darwin, Long John La Feat, Nethernore — the Bird of Death, Spaulding, Arthur Drew, Jackie and Ga Ga, and Squeaky.

The Two and Only! was conceived by Jay Johnson, Murphy Cross and Paul Kreppel and directed by Murphy Cross & Paul Kreppel.

The creative team also included Beowulf Boritt (scenery), Clifton Taylor (lighting), David Gotwald (sound) and Michael Andreas (original music).

The producers were Roger Alan Gindi, Stewart F. Lane & Bonnie Comley, Dan Whitten, Herbert Goldsmith Productions, Ken Grossman, Bob & Rhonda Silver, Michael A. Jenkins/Dallas Summer Musicals, Inc. and WetRock Entertainment.

For more information, visit www.thetwoandonly.com.