Harris, Colin, Rabe Set for Revival of Old Acquaintance

The New York Times reports that the Roundabout Theatre Company will present a revival of John Van Druten's 1940 play Old Acquaintance.

Directed by Hartford Stage Artistic Director Michael Wilson (Enchanted April), the production of the drawing room comedy will begin previews at the American Airlines Theatre on June 1st for a June 28th opening.  It will play a limited run through August 19th.

Old Acquaintance will star Tony Award-winner Harriet Harris (Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Man Who Came to Dinner, Kennedy Center Mame), Margaret Colin (Defiance, A Day in the Death of Joe Egg) and Lily Rabe (Heartbreak House, Steel Magnolias).

Old Acquaintance opened at the Morosco Theatre on December 23, 1940 to run for 170 performances.  The play concerns the romantic travails of Millie, a woman who, with the help of her "serious author" friend Kit, publishes a trashy pulp novel.  Millie's friendship with Kit is severely tested by Millie's belief that Kit has stolen her husband.

A 1943 film adaptation starred reported real-life rivals Bette Davis as Kit and Miriam Hopkins as Millie, as well as Gig Young.  Van Druten adapted his play into a screenplay.  Van Druten's other plays include I Am a Camera, Bell, Book and Candle and I Remember Mama.

Photo of Harriet Harris by Mark Rupp