Old Globe to premiere new holiday musical from Burt Bacharach — Some Lovers

By Diana Saenger

With music by Burt Bacharach and Steven Sater, and an inspirational Christmas story exploring the theme that there is no happier or worst time than what is now, “Some Lovers” may bring some magical moments you don’t want to miss. The world premiere of “Some Lovers,” is set for Nov. 26–Dec. 31 in the Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre at The Old Globe in Balboa Park.

Academy and Grammy Award-winning legend Bacharach teamed with Steven Sater (“Spring Awakening’s”) for this Christmas tale that takes place over 20 years and re-imagines O. Henry’s classic “The Gift of the Magi.”

“Burt has been such a huge influence on my life and the way I think … and memories growing up,” said actress Michelle Duffy (“Leap of Faith,” “Continental Divide”) who plays Molly. “He and Steven both are so hands on, in they’re in the room and working with all of us.”

Will Frears directs the show (Broadway’s “Year Zero,” “Rainbow Kiss”; films “Coach,” “All Saints Day,” “Beloved”) and Denis Jones is the choreographer. The book and lyrics come from Tony and Grammy Award-winner Sater, with music supervision by Lon Hoyt.

Jason Danieley (“Next to Normal,” “The Full Monty”) portrays Molly’s ex Ben. Other cast members include Jenni Barber as young Molly, and Andrew Mueller as young Ben.

Duffy said the story reminds her of “Midnight in Paris.”

“As actors, we’ve been figuring out the main storyline for how we go in and out of time, what the rules are for time travel, and when it’s magical and when it’s real,” she said. “The idea that maybe we were born in the wrong era or that everyone seems to think there was a better time than today can be tricky to display to an audience.

“I just closed a the play ‘Shooting Star’ about ex-lovers stranded at an airport together who revisit the decisions they made based on bad information. I was surprised how much that play resonated with people. That theme is also very strong in this play based on Ben, a musician, who is going back through his life and looking at moments when he could have done something different.”

This curtain rises on a Christmas Eve when estranged lovers Molly and Ben can’t help but recall happier times, an unforgettable favorite song, and special memories.

If you go

What: “Some Lovers”

When: Matinees and evenings, Nov. 26–Dec. 31

Where: The Globe’s Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre

1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park

Tickets: From $35

Box Office: (619) 23-GLOBE o

Website:

www.TheOldGlobe.org