GEORGIE BOY!`................. premiered April 13, 1988, at Drury Lane South Theatre in Chicago, It is a foot-tapping, flag-waving musical featuring the music and lyrics of George M. Cohan, directed by Dominic Missimi, additional music by Michael McClain, book and additional lyrics by James Kall, musical direction and arrangements by Ed Kalnins, choreography by Phil LaDuca, set by Thomas Ryan and lighting by Stephen White.
This tribute to George M. Cohan traces his life from his early vaudeville days to his ascension as Broadway`s top producer and one of its brightest stars.......a starry-eyed patriot with irrepressible talent.
The chronological storyline is interlaced
with 27 Cohan tunes (plus two original songs
by Michael McClain), among them ``Give My
Regards to Broadway,`` ``Over There`` and
``Harrigan.`` There`s even a rousing finale
that includes ``The Yankee Doodle Boy``
and ``You`re a Grand Old Flag``.
The original cast of GEORGIE BOY!
starred Phil LaDuca, an accomplished
tapper and singer as Cohan. The dance
ensemble,was packed with solid performers
who could both dance and sing..
A direct quote from the Chicago Tribune said, "Highlighting
the production is Robyn Peterman, as Josie Cohan (George`s
sister). She is charming. Her little-sister character is delightfully
sassy and combative, and she`s a standout performer in her solo turns".
