The South Coast Repertory (SCR) has announced the cast for The Education of Randy Newman, a world premiere musical which began rehearsals this week in Costa Mesa, California. The Education of Randy Newman will begin previews May 26. The show opens June 2 and will run through July 2. Featured in the show will be cast members Jordan Bennett, Gregg Henry, Sherry Hursey, John Lathan, Allison Smith, Scott Waara and Jennifer Leigh Warren. With the exception of Gregg Henry, the production marks the SCR debut for the entire cast.

With words and music by Randy Newman, The Education of Randy Newman is directed by Myron Johnson. The show was conceived by Michael Roth (who provides musical direction, vocal arrangements and orchestrations), Jerry Patch and Newman.

The design and production team comprises set designer Ralph Funicello, costume designer Judith Dolan, lighting designer Donald Holder, projection designer John Boesche, sound designer Francois Bergeron, wig designer Carol F. Doran and production stage manager Julie Haber.

Production notes indicate that the noted autobiography "The Education of Henry Adams" provided a model for the musical, which tells the life story of a songwriter who bears "some resemblance" to Randy Newman. The creators of the show have cobbled together those selections of Newman's catalog that they felt best depict the "life of an American artist in the last half of the 20th Century."

Tickets range from $23-$52. South Coast Rep is located at 655 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa, one block east of the South Coast Plaza at the Bristol Street exit of the San Diego (405) Fwy. For tickets call (714) 708 5555.

-- By Murdoch McBride