East Lynne Theater Company Presents a World Premiere, ‘On the Sunny Side of the Street’

The cast and choreographer of ELTC’s “On the Sunny Side of the Street” on the first day of rehearsal: Annemarie Rosano, Scott Harrison, Karen Cleighton, Charles Gilbert, Joilet F. Harris and Melissa Zimmerman.

“Hey, Big Spender,” “I Feel a Song Coming On” and “Pick Yourself Up” are just three songs with lyrics written by the incomparable Dorothy Fields. The award-winning East Lynne Theater Company is proud to present the world premiere musical “On the Sunny Side of the Street,” the title taken from another Field’s hit, from June 13 through July 21.

Shortly after Charles Gilbert performed brilliantly as musical director, arranger and accompanist for “Rodgers’ Romance” (ELTC in 2016), he suggested to artistic director Gayle Stahlhuth that she produce an evening of Dorothy Fields. Stahlhuth thought it a terrific idea and agreed to produce and direct it. Joining the team is choreographer Karen Cleighton. Both Gilbert and Cleighton have been nominated for Barrymore Awards in Philadelphia. The exceptional cast includes Joilet F. Harris, Scott Harrison, Annemarie Rosano and Melissa Zimmerman.

Fields wrote lyrics for more than 400 songs, and worked on 15 Broadway musicals and almost 30 films. Her work with Jerome Kern included them winning the Academy Award for Best Song in 1936 for “The Way You Look Tonight.” Other collaborators include McHugh, Coleman, Romberg, Gould, Schwartz, Levant and Arlen.

Shows are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8:30 p.m., except there is no show on Wednesday, July 4, and a show on Sunday, July 8. On opening night, June 13, there is an after-show party at The Washington Inn, 801 Washington St.

Location is The First Presbyterian Church of Cape May, 500 Hughes St. For information and to make a reservation, call (609) 884-5898, email eastlynneco@aol.com or visit www.eastlynnetheater.org.