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STAGE TUBE: MSNBC Visits the Stars of 101 DALMATIONS

The 101 Dalmatians Musical, based on the 1956 classic story written by Dodie Smith launched at the historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis on October 13, 2009, The 101 Dalmatians Musical features an impressive cast made-up of Broadway veterans and newcomers that will bring to life this one-of-a-kind musical adventure for the entire family. Drama Desk Award winner Rachel York leads that cast as the sinister Cruella de Vil, notorious for kidnapping Dalmatian puppies for their distinctive spots. Best known for her critically acclaimed Broadway performances in City of Angels, Les Misérables, Victor/Victoria (Drama Desk Award) with Dame Julie Andrews, The Scarlet Pimpernel, Sly Fox, and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, York also turned heads with her portrayal of Lucille Ball in the CBS movie, Lucy.

In addition to a talented cast, The 101 Dalmatians Musical is led by an award-winning creative team including four-time Tony Award winning director Jerry Zaks (A Bronx Tale, Smokey Joe's Café, Guys and Dolls), acclaimed bookwriter and co-lyricist BT McNicholl (Billy Elliot, Spamalot, The IT Girl), and composer and co-lyricist Dennis DeYoung, best known as the founding member of the legendary rock band STYX. Magic Arts & Entertainment/Tix Corporation, Troika Entertainment, and international producer Luis Alvarez have produced the musical.

The production follows Dalmatians spouses Pongo and Missis Pongo who are living the good life in London with their "pets" Charles and Catherine Dearly. When their 10 puppies are suddenly "dognapped" by the villainous Cruella de Vil, they summon the help of a vast network of dogs and set off to rescue their pups. There's a happy ending for all with laughter, mayhem and music along the way. The 101 Dalmatians Musical also stars fifteen real Dalmatians, many of which were rescued from animal shelters across the country, in a surprise grand finale that will leave audiences cheering. The 101 Dalmatians Musical will travel to major markets and venues across the country following its debut in Minneapolis including a three-week engagement at Madison Square Garden's WaMu Theater in New York City on April 6-25, 2010. For more tour and ticket information, visit: www.the101dalmatiansmusical.com.