(Press release)

Baylor University Theatre will open its 2009-2010 season with the university world premiere of The Drowsy Chaperone, a rousing musical-within-a-comedy. This five-time Tony Award winning musical boasts delightful music and lyrics by Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison and a book by Bob Martin and Don McKellar. The Drowsy Chaperone opened on Broadway at the Marquis Theatre on May 1, 2006. This hilarious show-within-a-show has since been produced in London’s West End and had two North American tours. The production runs from October 1st through 10th at the Jones Theatre in the Hooper Schaefer Fine Arts Center on Baylor campus. Tickets are $15 and are available by calling 254-710-1865, in person at the box office located in the theatre lobby, or online at www.baylor.edu/theatre.

As the audience pours into the theatre a greeting from the shy, but lovable Man in Chair is heard. Like all theatre-goers, he too just wants it “to be a good show” and within the first few moments it is indeed clear The Drowsy Chaperone will be nothing short of a colorful romp through the jazz age of the 1920s. As the Man places the record of one of his favorite musicals on the turntable we are immediately transported to a time of good old-fashioned fun.

The characters literally come to life in the Man’s home and introductions occur starting with the intended bride and groom, the Chaperone herself, and numerous other amusing people, including a Latin Lothario intent on ruining the wedding. The leading lady, Janet Van De Graaff is intent on giving up the life of glamour on the stage to settle down with oil heir Robert Martin. However, her producer Mr. Feldzieg will be out a lot of dough if Janet does indeed go through with her plan. Gangster pastry chefs and “The King of Romance,” Adolpho, are included in a plot to woo Janet away from Robert.

With so many over the top characters in a one-act musical, it’s no surprise that mix-ups, mayhem, and mistaken identity are just waiting to appear on the stage. But as is the case with most musicals the audience is reminded that “Love is Always Lovely in the End.”

Lisa Denman directs this university world premiere as Baylor Theatre opens its 2009-2010 season. Baylor Theatre’s season will also include Fuddy Meers, The Seagull, Macbeth, and Enchanted April. For tickets, season tickets, or more information, call 254-710-1865 or visit www.baylor.edu/theatre. Tickets are $15 each or $12 with Baylor ID.