International City Theatre will open its 34th season with the award-winning jukebox musical, “Life Could Be A Dream,” ICT announced.
Written and created by Roger Bean, who brought to life “The Marvelous Wonderettes” among other popular musicals, the ’60s throwback follows novice doo-wop group Danny and the Dreamers as they enter the Big Whopper Radio contest and pursue their dreams of stardom.
Expect to hear and swoon over “Fools Fall in Love,” “Tears on My Pillow,” Runaround Sue,” “Earth Angel,” “Stay,” “Unchained Melody,” “Lonely Teardrops” and “The Glory of Love.”
“Some of our favorite, feel-good memories sweep over us when we hear a song on the radio,” said director Jamie Torcellini in a statement. “’Life Could Be A Dream’ transports us back to a simpler time, floods us with nostalgia and reminds us of those important times that helped shape our lives.”
The story goes like so: Lois arrives to help the boys with their aspirations, Denny and Wally fall head over heels in love, Eugene crumbles and heartthrob Skip upsets the entire situation.
“Life Could Be A Dream” premiered at The Hudson Theatre in Hollywood a decade ago to critical acclaim, was the recipient of 2009’s L.A. Drama Critics Circle Award for Production of the Year and the Backstage Garland award for Outstanding Musical.
ICT puts on five plays every season, organizes six educational programs annually for seniors, families and under-served children and aims to inspire thoughtful dialogue through each program and production.
Low-priced previews of “Life Could Be a Dream” take place Wednesday, Feb. 20 and Thursday, Feb. 21 at 8 p.m. for $35. The show opens Friday, Feb. 22 at 8 p.m. and runs through Sunday, March 10 at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, 330 E. Seaside Way. For tickets and more information, call 562-436-4610 or visit the website here.