Theater at Monmouth will open its (R)evolutionary Redux Season with the charming coming-of-age musical “Daddy Long Legs,” with lyrics and music by Paul Gordon and book by John Caird. This heartwarming story about a witty and tenacious young woman and her mysterious benefactor is filled with soaring melodies and deep longing. Based on the classic novel, which inspired the 1955 movie starring Fred Astaire, “Daddy Long Legs” is a “rags-to-riches” tale of newfound love in the spirit of Jane Austen, The Brontë Sisters, and “Downton Abbey”.

Follow Jerusha’s journey at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 25, through Friday, Aug. 20. Additional performance are set for 7:30 p.m. July 7, 10, Aug. 6 and 8; and at 1 p.m. July 25, 31, Aug. 14 and 20.

Jerusha Abbott is the “Oldest orphan in the John Grier Home.” After a meeting with the Home’s trustees, Jerusha is informed that she will be attending college at the expense of a mysterious benefactor, as long as she follows his specific instructions. As her benefactor has seen her potential to be a great writer, she must write a letter every month addressed to a “John Smith.” She must also acknowledge that these letters will not be read or responded to. Through these letters, Jerusha reveals her personal growth from a lonely orphan to a sociable young woman, who may have fallen in love.

Director Adam P. Blais relates, “Jerusha possesses the ability to see beyond the distractions of the world and is able to hone in on the often-overlooked details that surround her.” First produced at the Rubicon Theatre Company in 2009, Gordon and Caird have adapted a classic Cinderella tale, that all ages will enjoy. Blais continues, “Her [Jerusha’s] story reminds audiences that life is about the journey and not the destination. It is about the people that we meet, the places that we discover, and the experiences that shape us for years to come.”

“Daddy Long Legs” features Henry Hetz as Jervis Pendleton and Sophia Mobbs as Jerusha Abbott. Directed by Adam P. Blais; Set design by Daniel Bilodeau, Costume Design by Michelle Handley, Lighting Design by Jim Alexander, and Sound Design by Rew Tippin. Music Director Rebecca Caron with musicians Mike French on Guitar and Alex Wong on Cello.

Single tickets for the Summer Repertory and Fall Plays cost $36 for adults, $31 for senior citizens, and $22 for students (18 and younger).

For calendar and reservations, call the TAM Box Office at 207-933-9999 or visit theateratmonmouth.org.

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