March 18--A new musical adaptation of Jane Austen's "Northanger Abbey" will be featured in Lifeline Theatre's 2015-16 season. The theater's full lineup was announced on Wednesday.
First is "Miss Buncle's Book" (Sept. 11-Nov. 1, 2015), based on D.E. Stevenson's 1934 novel, in a new adaptation by Christina Calvit. "Buncle's Book" is about an average woman in a small town, whose life is made manic by a newfound career as an author. Dorothy Milne will direct the production.
Then comes a new adaptation of James Leo Herlihy's 1965 novel "Midnight Cowboy" (Feb. 19-April 10, 2016). The play, adapted by Chris Hainsworth, concerns a down-on-his-luck Texan who moves to New York City.
The main season ends on "Northanger Abbey" (May 27-July 17, 2016) with a book by Robert Kauzlaric and music and lyrics by George Howe. Elise Kauzlaric will stage the musical.
Three more new musicals will be included in Lifeline's KidSeries:
"Mr. Popper's Penguins" (Oct. 24-Nov. 29, 2015) based on Richard and Florence Atwater's book, is once again written by the team of Robert Kauzlaric and Howe. "Penguins" will be directed by Paul S. Holmquist.
"Sparky!" (Jan. 16-Feb.21, 2016) adapted from Jenny Offill's children's book about a pet sloth, has music and lyrics by Laura McKenzie and a book by Jessica Wright Buha. Amanda Link directs.
Last is "Lester's Dreadful Sweaters" (March 19-April 24, 2016), a show full of playground fashion faux pas that's based on K.G. Campbell's story. The book is by Aly Renee Amidei, the music is by Scott Tallarida with lyrics by Amidei and Tallarida.
Lifeline Theatre is located at 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
