THE MUSIC MAN Plays Theatre Memphis, Now thru 6/29

The Music Man, an All-American musical classic, opens tonight, June 6, 2014 and runs through June 29, 2014 on the Lohrey Stage at Theatre Memphis. Professor Harold Hill descends on River City, Iowa, to con the town into organizing a young people's band and, along the way, selling them "76 Trombones." But he didn't count on meeting Marian the Librarian, hearing "Till There Was You" and finding the love of a good woman and a gaggle of youngsters to tender his fast-talking, sham artist heart.

Director Amy Hanford returns to Theatre Memphis at the helm of the production and will be supported by Music Director Gary Beard and Choreographer Christi Hall. Also in the production is her husband Rob Hanford as the lead, Professor Hill. This is not the first production director Hanford has utilized her spouse's skills, but it may be the most trying. "With so much going on with a production this big, I usually can always rely on Rob to bring his natural talents to the table and trust his agility," she says. "This one is different in that we had to be patient while Rob healed from a broken leg before he could "dance on the scenery."

The cast includes some well known Memphis actors in prime roles including Emily Chateau as Marian, Steve Swift as Mayor Shinn and a custom-cast barbershop quartet that includes the eclectic group of Doug Hardin, Joe Lackie, Kevin Kenny and Charles Hodges. The popular "Pick-a Little Ladies" group is to include Kate Crowder, Shelly Yeager, Ashley Kopera and Lauren Hollenbeck. "Besides being talented performers, I wanted authenticity in every element and the cast we were able to get and the special touches we have been able to add to this show makes it something very special," Hanford relates. "We've incorporated several things that will make this production a standout"

Theatre Memphis Executive Director Debbie Litch sings the praises of this The Music Man production, too, "Ending our 2013-14 season with Amy mounting an upbeat, family-friendly musical really reflects how versatile we are at TM and how we strive to have artistic excellence with every show we do." Hanford concurs, "I can always count on Theatre Memphis to give me the support I need and help me share my vision."

TICKETS: $30 adults, $15 students with valid ID, $10 children 11 and under

BOX OFFICE: 901.682.8323

WEB: www.theatrememphis.org

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