Dr. Doolittle

Chicago audiences may be able to talk to the animals after all.  The on-again, off-again touring stage production of the Leslie Bricusse musical 'Doctor Doolittle" is back on the schedule for Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre July 18-30, 2006.  Legendary song and dance man Tommy Tune not only takes the lead but the directorial reins as well.  Broadway veteran Dee Hoty has been announced as Tune's love interest.  Ms. Hoty's credits include 'The Will Rogers Follies," 'Mamma Mia," 'City of Angels" and 'The Best Little Whorehouse Goes Public."

Throughout his prolific career, the legendary Mr. Tune has garnered many prestigious awards, including The National Medal of Arts presented by the President in 2003, nine Tony Awards, eight Drama Desk Awards, two Obie Awards and two Fred Astaire Awards. The multi-talented performer, choreographer and director has many credits to his name including Grand Hotel, The Will Rogers Follies, A Day in Hollywood/A Night in the Ukraine, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and the original production of Nine.

"What a privilege to be working with the talented Tommy Tune," says Producer Van Kaplan, Pittsburgh CLO. "His unique performance style and flair are bound to delight theatergoers across the country. Audiences are in for a treat."

Dr. Dolittle features a book, music and lyrics written by Leslie Bricusse, a writer-composer-lyricist who has contributed to numerous musicals and movies during his career. Book revisions are by Lee Tannen. The show's charming and witty score features the Academy Award-winning song "Talk to the Animals" and a flock of other tuneful delights, including "When I Look in Your Eyes," "I've Never Seen Anything Like It" and "After Today."

This whimsical tale first wowed audiences in the critically acclaimed 1967 movie starring Rex Harrison. It earned an impressive eight academy award nominations, winning several Oscars.
                                                                                                                        -Joe Stead

Theatre In Chicago News Contributor Joe Stead has spent over 20 years as a critic, director, designer and performer.  His reviews currently appear online at www.steadstylechicago.com