O’Reilly Theater
March 9—April 9
8 p.m., 7 p.m. & 2 p.m.
From La La Land and Glee, to In the Heights and Trolls, musicals are hot and showing no signs of a ritardando.
Fans of the genre should not miss the Pittsburgh premiere of the award-winning musical, Daddy Long Legs, during its monthlong run at Downtown’s O’Reilly Theater.
Written by John Caird, with music and lyrics by Paul Gordon, Daddy Long Legs is based on the 1912 novel by American author Jean Webster.
Webster’s timeless story has served as the basis for numerous cultural adaptations, including a 1919 silent film featuring Mary Pickford, a1955 Hollywood musical comedy film starring Fred Astaire, and even a1990 animated Japanese television series.
Be among the first in Pittsburgh to experience the enchanting production which made its quirked premiere at London’s St. James Theatre.
Audiences will be transported to early 20th century England to meet protagonist Jerusha Abbott—the oldest orphan in the John Grier Home—whose life changes dramatically when she is supported by a wealthy benefactor named Jervis Pendleton. Find out what transpires when Jervis sends Jerusha off to college and requires the young girl to write him a letter every month.
Performed via songs by the two main characters, Jerusha’s compelling letters explore her experiences attending college, coming of age, falling in love, discovering literature, and more.
Starring as Jerusha Abbott is Pittsburgh newcomer Danielle Bowen, who has appeared on stage from Connecticut to California in iconic musicals such as The Wizard of Oz. Portraying Jervis Pendleton is seasoned actor and recent Pittsburgh transplant, Allan Snyder, who recently appeared on Broadway in Les Misérables and Off-Broadway in The Fantasticks.
The musical showcases melodically rich contemporary songs, such as “The Secret of Happiness” and “My Manhattan.” Performing in the show live will be musical director F. Wade Russo on piano, Elise Henkelman on cello and Ken Karsh on guitar.
Directed by Pittsburgh Public Theater’s Producing Artistic Director, Ted Pappas, Daddy Long Legs is appropriate for ages 10 and older.
Looking for more events? Check out our 11 Pittsburgh events not to miss in March, Top 10 family events in Pittsburgh this March and our 17 can’t-miss Pittsburgh concerts in 2017 feature stories.
