May 17, 2011 > Rogers & Hart: A Celebration Rogers & Hart: A Celebration By Patsy Ledbetter Spring has arrived and so have romance and nostalgia at the Douglas Morrison Theater in Hayward with the musical, "Rogers & Hart: A Celebration." Director Michael Ryken is thrilled about this exciting endeavor. He says, "As the title states, it is a celebration of the work of an amazing musical partnership - Richard Rodgers music and Lorenz Hart's lyrics. We've structured the show such that songs flow freely from one to the other, and that each of the six members of the ensemble cast get a nice variety of songs to perform. The audience will certainly recognize many of the songs, but I'm certain that there will be some delightful new surprises for people as well." While there's not a plot, the show isn't a concert or a cabaret. There will be a definite theatricality to the production, lots of movement and some dance, beautiful costumes designed by Richard Battle, and a very fun set designed by George Ledo. The stage lighting will be crafted by Matthew Royce. Ryken explains, "Most importantly for me we will provide some context for each of these wonderful musical gems. At the end of the day, the star of the show is truly the music. I'm confident that folks will leave the theater smiling and humming these memorable tunes, hopefully having been thoroughly entertained." Rogers & Hart were a very prolific writing team from 1925-1943. Their songs are adored by many theater and music lovers. The vocal director is Sierra Dee and the band director is Kevin Ledbetter. Ledbetter is looking forward to working with an amazingly talented jazz combo including drums, bass, piano and woodwinds. He adds, "This is timeless music that will lift the hearts of the entire audience." This rousing pastiche is a true celebration of the prolific team of Rodgers & Hart, with its wit, freshness and intelligence Rogers & Hart: A Celebration May 20-June 12 Fridays and Saturdays 8 p.m. Sundays 2 p.m. Douglas Morrison Theater 22311 N. Third St. Hayward (510) 881-6777 www.dmtonline.org Tickets: Adults-$28, Seniors-$25; Students and children-$20