Cate Caplin is directing and choreographing an updated version of the musical BABY at Group Repertory Theatre opening June 4th. The Maltby & Shire musical, which was nominated for seven Tony Awards, has a book by Sybille Pearson and is based on a story developed with Susan Yankowitz. Jeffrey Rockwell will musical direct.

According to Caplin, “BABY has been a very special story that I have wanted to tell as a director for over 15 years. Aside from its glorious music and its clever and thoughtful lyrics, there is an emotionally charged and poignant heartbeat built into the very essence and core of each of the couples we become involved with. There is a universal truth and honesty that everyone can relate to and a timelessness that resonates and touches all who experience the piece.”

She adds, “The production will feature a lot of choreographed ‘moments’ and heightened styling throughout. I’ve designed physical animation that mirrors the musical punctuation and visually ‘paints’ the nature and journey of the three principal couples, their emotional ride and their surrounding world of players.”

The three couples will be played by Emily Thompson and Robert Allen as Lizzie and Danny, Dana Abrams and Steve Rizzo as Pam and Nick, and Luise Heath and Lloyd Pedersen as Arlene and Alan. Completing the ensemble are Klair Bybee, Tonilyn Hornung, Beckett Arnold, Lareen Faye, Michael Cassano and Jeremy M. Sage.

The design team for BABY includes Rachel Jaime Miller (Lighting), Chris Winfield (Set), Maro K. Parian (Costumes) and Lauren Cocca (Props). Richard Woody is Assistant Director and Michele Bernath is Assistant Choreographer.

Two Talkback Sessions with the cast will be held following the Sunday performances on June 13 and June 27.