LaToya London to Sport a 'Beehive' in LA, 9/24-10/8

"American Idol" star LaToya London has been cast in the retro musical Beehive, which will play the El Portal Theatre in Los Angeles from September 24th through October 8th.

Also starring Stacy Francis, Kathleen Hennessey, Tricia Kelly, Sylvia MacCalla and Lesli Margherita, the show will be helmed by Nick DeGruccio with choreography by Lee Martino.  "Silly and serious, funny and phenomenal, this feelgood, fast-paced '60s songfest is all about having a good time. So, grab your Aquanet and go-go boots and get ready to party!," state El Portal notes.

After opening at Top of the Gate on March 30th, 1986, Beehive - which features a range of '60s pop hits such as "My Boyfriend's Back" and "I Hear a Symphony" - played 600 Off-Broadway performances.  The original cast included Alison Fraser and Jasmine Guy.

London was a finalist on season three of "American Idol."  Her first album, "Love & Life," was released by Concord Records last year.  Recent singles include "Every Part of Me" and "State of My Heart."

The show will also feature sound design by Philip G. Allen, lighting design by Steven Young and costume design by Scott Lane.  Jim Vukovich will serve as musical director, conductor and pianist. 

Beehive is the inaugural production by the new company Valley Musical Theatre, which will also present Sally Struthers and Adrian Zmed in Nuncrackers this holiday season.

The El Portal Theatre is located at 5269 Lankershim Boulevard in North Hollywood, CA. Tickets range from $30-$45; call (866) 811-4111, or visit www.valleymusicaltheatre.com or www.elportaltheatre.com.