Doctor Dolittle opens in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, August 2; buckle up kids, we’re in for one heckuva ride. The tech period in Owensboro, KY was extremely grueling for all involved, but a lot of great work was accomplished. The sets and costumes look beautiful; the cast is terrific and the puppets are wonderful with two in particular getting applause on their entrance.

On a sad note, our musical director, Michael Duff, has left the show and a replacement has yet to be selected. Michael will be sorely missed as he returns to Asia to continue as musical director of The Sound of Music. Nick is in the mix as a possible replacement and a decision should be coming very soon. Dave Chase, the dance arranger, will conduct through opening and a little beyond. Don Chan has given a 4 week notice as well, so Nick will, at the very least, be associate musical director as of the beginning of September. As Arte Johnson would say: hmmm, veddy interesting…

Scott Guy has completed the first draft of NOP’s Cinderella and will deliver it shortly so Nick can begin writing the music. Scott is very happy with the draft and describes it as one of his funniest to date.

The Darby O’Gill songs will be presented to Cathy Rigby and company in early to mid September, so we’ll have a little wait to see if Nick will be chosen as the composer for the potential Broadway show. Keep those fingers crossed.