Mags and Andy are a screenwriting team with a
track record of hits and a professional relationship that’s firing on all
cylinders. But when Andy’s marriage hits the rocks, forever single Mags finds
she wants something more. Will romance ruin their perfect relationship? A witty
and irreverent look at what women want and whether men fit the bill...or
don’t. How did Dog and Pony find its way to The Old Globe?
The first thing I did when I was appointed Artistic Director was call a bunch of talented people I’m fortunate to count as friends. I asked them what they had cooking that might be in need of a home. One of the wonderful artists I called was the great Rick Elice. He told me about this musical he was writing with Michael Patrick Walker, a funny, witty and urbane piece about two screenwriters whose professional relationship is buffeted when romance enters the picture. I read it and listened to the score and was just beguiled by it. Another person I called was Roger Rees. I asked him what he had up his sleeve to direct, and he said, “Rick’s musical!” So the piece’s charms, plus the considerable charms of Rick and Roger, made me say, “I’m in!”
What about the show did you see as a good fit for The Old Globe and your audiences?
I was looking for a small-scale musical for our Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, a 250-seat theatre in the round. San Diego has an incredible musical theatre audience, of course because of the reputations of the Globe and the La Jolla Playhouse for premiering these works, but also because the small theatre scene in town is rich in musical theatre talent. So Dog and Pony had it all: the right size and scope we were seeking, a winning tone, really terrific score and a group of artists who are top flight.
This is the first production for the show. What are some of the challenges for the team as they prepare to bring this show from the page to the stage?
