AN AMERICAN IN PARIS

THE ALLEY THEATRE
www.alleytheatre.org
Gregory Boyd, Artistic Director

PRESENTS

THE GERSHWIN'S

AN AMERICAN IN PARIS

April 29th - extended through June 22nd, 2008

The World Premiere of a New Musical Comedy

The Ensemble in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Alley Theatre Announces Complete Cast and Creative Team for World Premiere of New Gershwin Musical Comedy, The Gershwins’An American in Paris

- Kerry O’Malley and Ron Orbach Join Cast. Larry Blank and Douglas Besterman Will Create Orchestration and Andrew Bryan Will Conduct.

HOUSTON, TX - The hilarious new musical comedy The Gershwins’ An American in Paris takes a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the legendary movie-musical. Reuniting Ken Ludwig, George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin – the team behind the Broadway smash Crazy For You – this new American musical tells the story of Michel Gerard, the greatest music hall singer in Paris. When Michel fails to turn up at Monumental Pictures’ Paris studio for the filming of a new musical, Studio Chief Louis Goldman sends his practical, no-nonsense secretary, Rebecca Klemm, to find the missing star – and when the legendary Parisian crosses swords with the indomitable American, nothing short of fireworks ensue. Don’t miss this blissful prequel to the famous movie, featuring some of the best-loved songs written by George and Ira Gershwin including: "S’ Wonderful," "They All Laughed," "Stairway to Paradise" and many more.

With Words and Music by George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin, Book by Ken Ludwig, Musical Supervisor Rob Berman, Choreography by Randy Skinner and Directed by Alley Artistic Director Gregory Boyd, The Gershwins’ An American in Paris began previews Tuesday, April 29, officially opened Sunday, May 18 and has been extended through Sunday, June 22nd, 2008.

The Gershwins’ An American in Paris is generously sponsored by Premiere Sponsors Apache Corporation, BJ Services Corporation, Ira and Leonore Gershwin Trusts, Genie and Bill Johnson and Meredith and Cornelia Long. Additional support is provided by Lead Sponsors Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation, U.S. Trust, Bank of America Private Wealth Management, ConocoPhillips, Enbridge Energy Company, Inc., and Pricewaterhouse Coopers. The Alley Theatre is supported by the 2007-2008 season sponsor Continental Airlines, the official airline of the Alley Theatre.

Felicia Finley as Hermia in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Jeffry Denman as Preston in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

About the Cast:
Jeffry Denman (Preston) made his Broadway debut in the revival of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. His other Broadway credits include the Johnny Mercer musical review Dream, the final cast of Cats (Munkustrap) and the original Mel Brooks’ The Producers. He has performed in concert with Marvin Hamlisch and The National Symphony at the Kennedy Center and with Michael Feinstein at Carnegie Hall. Denman has performed at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, the Fox Theatre, Portland Stage in Maine, Ordway Center and Ogunquit Playhouse.

Stephen DeRosa (Hamish) performed on Broadway as First Beard and Max Jacobs in Twentieth Century, as Bardolph, Justic Shallow and Justice Silence in Henry IV, as Wilbur Turnblad in Hairspray, as Baker in Into the Woods and as Professor Metz in The Man Who Came to Dinner.

(L-R) Harry Groener as Michel Gerard and Kerry O'Malley as Miss Klemm in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Broadway veteran Felicia Finley (Hermia) has performed on Broadway as Linda in The Wedding Singer, Amneris in Aida, April in The Life and in Smokey Joe’s Cafe. Finley toured in Jekyll and Hyde and Jesus Christ Superstar and was in Off-Broadway productions Forbidden Broadway (SVU and 2001 Space Odyssey). Finley has also performed at the Paper Mill Playhouse, Ogunquit Playhouse and Helen Hayes Theatre.

Harry Groener (Michel Gerard) is a three-time Tony Award nominee, including 1992 Best Actor in a Musical for Bobby Child in Ken Ludwig’s Crazy For You and Best Featured Actor in a Musical for Cats in 1983 and Oklahoma! in 1980. Other Broadway roles include: King Arthur in Spamalot, George (Act I and Act II) in Sunday in the Park with George, and Edward Harrigan in Harrigan ‘n Hart, receiving a Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Musical. Groener is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Richard Wilkins, the evil mayor of Sunnydale on the cult TV series "Buffy the Vampire Slayer." He has performed in many regional theatres including the Old Globe Theatre (where he is an associate artist), Mark Taper Forum, Westwood Playhouse, South Coast Repertory, Long Wharf Theater, A.C.T., and the Williamstown Theater Festival.

Ron Orbach as Louis Goldman in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Alix Korey (Hilda) was nominated for two Drama Desk Awards for Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical for Listen to My Heart and Wild Party. She performed on Broadway in All Shook Up, Triumph of Love, Chicago, The Pirates of Penzance and the 1978 revival of Hello, Dolly!, among others. She is featured on several albums including Songs You Might Have Missed and Gifts of Love.

Alix Korey as Hilda in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Kerry O’Malley (Miss Klemm) has appeared in the Broadway revivals of Into the Woods and Annie Get Your Gun. Her film credits include the upcoming Case 39 opposite Renee Zellweger, M. NightShyamalan’s The Happening, The Flying Scissors and Rounders. Television credits include Mary-Kate on "Brotherhood"(Showtime), series regular on "Costello"and "The Mike O'Malley Show," "Law & Order: SVU," "Monk," "Without a Trace," "My Name is Earl," "King of Queens," "Kidnapped," "Charmed," "Law & Order," "NYPD Blue" and "Brooklyn South.’

Ron Orbach (Louis Goldman) has performed on Broadway as Amos Hart in the first national tour of Chicago, where heearned the 1997 Jeff Award and a 1998 Theater LA-Ovations nomination for the original national touring company, and Ira Stone in Laughter on the 23rd Floor. His TV credits include "Without A Trace", "Law & Order", "Law & Order: Criminal Intent", "Third Watch", and "Platypus Man." His film credits include Clueless and Building Girl.

Meredith Patterson as Yvette in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Meredith Patterson (Yvette) made her Broadway debut as Peggy Swayer in the revival of 42^nd Street and later performed this role in a production in Moscow. Her TV debut was in "ABC’s Boston Legal" and her film credits include Company Man, Broken Flowers and The Princess Diaries II: Royal Engagement. She has performed in Geffen Playhouse in The Underpants.

Kerry O'Malley as Miss Klemm in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Also included in the cast of The Gershwins’ An American in Paris are Jeremy Benton as Ensemble, Sara Brians as Female Ensemble Swing, Sae La Chin as Ensemble, Erin Crouch as Ensemble, Lianne Marie Dobbs as Ensemble, Michael Thomas Holmes as Ensemble, Drew Humphrey as Ensemble, Wendy James as Ensemble, Matthew Kirk as Male Ensemble Swing, Tony Lawson as Ensemble, Alison Levenberg as Ensemble, Joseph Medeiros as Ensemble, Shannon M. O’Bryan as Ensemble, James Patterson as Ensemble, Wes Pope as Ensemble, Benjie Randall as Ensemble, Kristen J. Smith as Ensemble, JD Webster as Ensemble, Kristen Beth Williams as Ensemble.

About the Creative Team:
About George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin:
The brothers George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin are among America’s greatest artists. Together, the Gershwins collaborated with DuBose Heyward on the American folk opera Porgy and Bess. Ira and George’s first Hollywood musical collaboration was Shall We Dance, the seventh of the ten film musicals featuring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. In 1931, the brothers collaborated on the score for the Broadway show, Of Thee I Sing, which became the first musical play to be awarded a Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

George Gershwin is also known for his orchestral works, "Rhapsody in Blue" and "An American in Paris," and "Concerto in F." Ira Gershwin, George Gershwin’s older brother, enjoyed a career that spanned over 40 years, and included collaborations with Jerome Kern, Kurt Weill, and Harold Arlen.

Ron Orbach as Louis Goldman (center) and the Ensemble in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

About Ken Ludwig:
In addition to authoring recent Alley Theatre world premieres, Be My Baby, Leading Ladies, and Treasure Island, Ken Ludwig is an Associate Artist of the Alley and is the author of several Broadway and London hits. Ludwig’s Crazy for You ran for 1622 performances on Broadway, won the Tony, Olivier, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle and Helen Hayes Awards as Best Musical of the Year and was broadcast nationwide on PBS Great Performances. His play Lend Me a Tenor won two Tony Awards, an Outer Critics Circle Award, and was nominated for England's prestigious Olivier Comedy of the Year Award. On Broadway, Ludwig’s Moon Over Buffalo starred Carol Burnett, then Lynn Redgrave and Robert Goulet, and went on to the West End in London. His adaptation ofBen Hecht and Charles MacArthur’s Twentieth Century ran on Broadway with Alec Baldwin and Anne Heche in 2004. And his play Shakespeare in Hollywood was commissioned by the Royal Shakespeare Company and won the Helen Hayes Award for Best New Play of the Year. His latest work includes the completion of a play by Thornton Wilder, at the request of Wilder’s estate; and an adaptation of The Three Musketeers, which was commissioned by England’s Bristol Old Vic. Ludwig’s work has been translated into 16 languages and performed in over 30 countries around the world.

(L-R) Jeffry Denman as Preston, Kerry O'Malley as Miss Klemm and Ron Orbach as Louis Goldman in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Rob Berman (Music Supervisor, Vocal and Dance Arrangements) has extensive Broadway credits, including the revival of Wonderful Townand The Pajama Game starring Henry Connick Jr. He is currently the music director for Encores! in New York. He music directed a new Stephen Sondheim review, Opening Doors, at Lincoln Center and also won a Helen Hayes Award for his music direction of the Kennedy Center Sondheim Celebration’s production of Sunday in the Park with George.

Stephen DeRosa as Hamish in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Randy Skinner (Choreographer) is an award-winning director and choreographer whose work has encompassed Broadway and regional productions. Credits include 42nd Street (Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics nominations), Ain’t Broadway Grand (Tony, Outer Critics nominations), State Fair (Outer Critics nomination), among others.

(R-L) Harry Groener as Michel Gerard and Felicia Finley as Hermia in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

About Gregory Boyd (Director):
Gregory Boyd became the artistic director of the Alley Theatre in 1989 and is "widely given credit for engineering the theater's rebound…"(New York Times). During his tenure, the Alley has risen in national and international prominence, winning the 1996 Special Tony Award and experiencing record growth in its Houston audiences, while also transferring its productions to major European Festivals (including an unprecedented two in one season at the Venice Biennale), Broadway and on tour to 40 American cities. At the Alley, Mr. Boyd has produced over 100 new productions of the widest ranging repertoire in the country. His Alley premieres have been nominated for eight Tony Awards - among them the premieres of Not About Nightingales by Tennessee Williams (Alley, London, Broadway), Jekyll & Hyde, (Alley, National Tour, Broadway), The Civil War (which he also co-authored). New productions have included: Ken Ludwig's adapation of Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island(Alley), Shakespeare’s Roman Plays (with Vanessa and Corin Redgrave); Robert Wilson’s productions of Hamlet, When We Dead Awaken and Danton's Death (with Richard Thomas); Ellen Burstyn in O’Neill’s Long Day's Journey Into Night and Tony Kushner’s Angels in America Parts 1 & 2 and Slavs! (Alley, Venice Biennale - both directed by Michael Wilson), premieres by Keith Reddin (Synergy) and Eve Ensler (Lemonade) and by Alley Artistic Associates Edward Albee (The Play About the Baby) Horton Foote (The Carpetbagger's Children) Ken Ludwig (Leading Ladies) and Frank Wildhorn (Jekyll & Hyde and Svengali).

Kristen Beth Williams as Hedda in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Douglas W. Schmidt (Scenic Designer) is a two-time Tony award nominee for the Broadway productions 42nd Street and Into The Woods. In the past 30 years Mr. Schmidt has designed over 200 productions working extensively on Broadway. Along with Broadway, Schmidt has designed for The New York Shakespeare Festival, The New York City and San Francisco Opera companies, The Repertory Theatre of Lincoln Center, among other producing organizations.

Carrie Robbins (Costume Designer) has worked on over 30 Broadway productions including: Class Act, Grease, Agnes of God, Yentl, Octette Bridgeclub, Sweet Bird of Youth, The First, Frankenstein, Happy End, Boys of Winter, Cyrano, Shadow Box, Secret Affairs of Mildred Wilde and others. She has designed many shows for Lincoln Center Rep, Chelsea Theatre Center, Arena Stage, Guthrie, Williamstown, Acting Co. and New York Shakespeare Festival. Film and television credits include In the Spirit, Saturday Night Live and PBS' Arts-in-America. She has received two Tony nominations, five Drama Desk awards, a Maharam, and two juried International. She is currently creating costumes for Edward Albee’s The American Dream and The Sandbox, which starts March 11, 2008 at the Cherry Lane Theatre.

(R-L) Jeffry Denman as Preston and Kerry O'Malley as Miss Klemm in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Paul Gallo (Lighting Designer) has seven Tony Award nominations; six Drama Desk nominations, winning one; six Outer Critics Circle Awards; two Obie Awards and was the recipient of the 1986 Obie for Sustained Excellence of Lighting Design. Broadway musicals include Man of La Mancha (2002 revival), 42nd Street (2001 Revival); The Rocky Horror Show, On the Town, Titanic, Smokey Joe’s Café, The Sound of Music, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Big, Crazy for You, Guys & Dolls. Broadway plays include The Crucible (starring Liam Neeson and Laura Linney), The Man Who Came to Dinner, The Tempest, Six Degrees of Separation, Lend Me a Tenor, The House of Blue Leaves, Beyond Therapy, Grown Ups and Little Foxes, among others.

Kerry O'Malley as Miss Klemm (center) and the Ensemble in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

Andrew Bryan (Music Director/Conductor) is the Music Director for Matthew Bourne and his critically acclaimed dance company, New Adventures’ Edward Scissorhands on its North
American tour and NYC premiere (Drama Desk Award), having previously conducted the 10^th Anniversary Tour of Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake throughout the US. Prior to that he was the Music Director/Conductor for the North American tour of Les Miserables. Other theatre credits include Hello, Dolly!, Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Memphis Theatre Award Nominations), The Nutcracker, Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, West Side Story, Evita, Oliver!, Assassins, 42^nd Street, Jesus Christ Superstar, Tommy, Oklahoma!, The Secret Garden, Chess, Children of Eden, and the Mid-South premiere of The Last Five Years.

Doug Besterman (Orchestrations) is a three-time Tony Award winner. He is currently doing orchestrations for the production of Young Frankenstein. Producer and arranger of the music for the Golden Globe nominated movie The Producers (including Best Song). Other Broadway credits: Tarzan, Thoroughly Modern Millie (2002 Tony/Drama Desk Awards), The Producers (2001 Tony/Drama Desk), Fosse (1999 Tony), The Music Man, Seussical, Big, Damn Yankees, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Dracula. West End: Guys and Dolls. Regional: Sister Act, I Sent a Letter to My Love, Paramour.

Larry Blank (Orchestrations) did the Tony nominated orchestrations for The Drowsy Chaperone. He was also the orchestrator for Martin Short’s Fame Becomes Me, the revival of La Cage Aux Folles for Broadway and the stage version of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Larry assisted Doug Besterman on the orchestrations for the stage and film productions of The Producers as well as the film version of Chicago and the London/ Australian production of Guys and Dolls. Larry has been orchestrator on many films for composer Marc Shaiman, and has been arranger on four Academy Awards shows and most recently was conductor for Josh Groban and Andrea Bocelli on the Grammy’s.

(L-R) Jeffrey Denman as Preston, Stephen DeRosa as Hamish and Ron Orbach as Louis Goldman in the Alley Theatre's production of The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS. The Gershwins' AN AMERICAN IN PARIS runs on the Alley's Hubbard Stage through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo by Michal Daniel.

The creative team of The Gershwins’ An American in Paris also includes Sound Design by Tom Morse, Casting by Jay Binder Casting and Mark Brandon, Associate Choreographer and Dance Captain Sara Brians, Dialect and Text Coach Pamela Prather, Fight Direction by BH Barry, Production Stage Manager Peter Wolf, Stage Manager Terry Cranshaw, Assistant Stage Manager Jay McLeod, and Assistant Director Jen Waldman.

SPECIAL PERFORMANCES AND EVENTS

TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets to The Gershwins’ An America in Paris start at $40. All tickets to The Gershwins’ An America in Paris are available for purchase at www.alleytheatre.org, at the Alley Theatre Box Office, 615 Texas Avenue, or by calling 713.220.5700. Groups of 10 or more can receive special concierge services by calling 713.315.3346. The added convenience of reservations by phone or Internet is available for a nominal fee.

# # #

CREME BRULEE NIGHTCLUB, PARIS. Photo of the scale model of the Alley's Set Design by Douglas W. Schmidt. The Gershwin's AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is showing from April 29 through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org.

Alley Theatre Presents the World Premiere of New Gershwin Musical Comedy, The Gershwins’ An American in Paris
-The Gershwins’ An American in Paris Runs April 29 through June 22, 2008 on the Hubbard Stage-

The Gershwins’ An American in Paris

Words and Music by George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin
Book by Ken Ludwig
Musical Supervisor Rob Berman
Choreography by Randy Skinner
Directed by Gregory Boyd
Hubbard Stage
April 29 through June 22, 2008

The wild and hilarious new musical comedy The Gershwins’ An American in Paris takes us on a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the legendary movie-musical. Reuniting Ken Ludwig, George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin – the team behind the Broadway smash Crazy For You – this new American musical tells the story of Michel Gerard, the greatest music hall singer in Paris. When Michel fails to turn up at Monumental Pictures’ Paris studio for the filming of a new musical, Studio Head Louis Goldman sends his practical, no-nonsense secretary, Rebecca Klemm, to find the missing star – and when the legendary Parisian crosses swords with the indomitable American, nothing short of fireworks ensue. Don’t miss this blissful prequel to the famous movie, featuring some of the best-loved songs written by George and Ira Gershwin including: "’S Wonderful," "They All Laughed," "Stairway to Paradise" and many more.

The Gershwins’ An American in Paris is generously sponsored by Premiere Sponsors Apache Corporation, BJ Services Corporation, Ira and Leonore Gershwin Trusts, Genie and Bill Johnson and Meredith and Cornelia Long. Additional support is provided by Lead Sponsors Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation, U.S. Trust Bank of America Private Wealth Management, ConocoPhillips, Enbridge Energy Company, Inc., and Pricewaterhouse Coopers. The Alley Theatre is supported by the 2007-2008 season sponsor Continental Airlines, the official airline of the Alley Theatre.

Monumental Pictures Soundstage LB Entrance. Photo of the scale model of the Alley's Set Design by Douglas W. Schmidt. The Gershwin's AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is showing from April 29 through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org.

WHEN
April 29 – June 22, 2008

Preview #1       Tuesday                       April 29                         7:30 p.m.
Preview #2       Wednesday                  April 30                         7:30 p.m. Mix & Mingle
Preview #3       Thursday                       May 1                           7:30 p.m.
Preview #4       Friday                          May 2                          8:00 p.m.
Preview #5       Saturday                       May 3                         2:30 p.m. Pay-What-You-Can
Preview #6       Saturday                       May 3                         8:00 p.m.
Preview #7       Sunday                         May 4                         7:30 p.m. Captioned, Audio Described
Preview #8     Wednesday                   May 7                         7:30 p.m.
Preview #9     Thursday                       May 8                         7:30 p.m. ActOUT
Preview #10     Friday                           May 9                         8:00 p.m.
Preview #11     Saturday                      May 10                        8:00 p.m.
Preview #12     Sunday                         May 11                       2:30 p.m.
Preview #13     Sunday                        May 11                       7:30 p.m.
Preview #14     Tuesday                       May 13                        7:30 p.m.
Preview #15     Wednesday                  May 14                        7:30 p.m.
Preview #16     Thursday                      May 15                        7:30 p.m.
Preview #17     Friday                          May 16                       8:00 p.m.
Preview #18     Saturday                      May 17                       2:30 p.m.
Preview #19     Saturday                      May 17                       8:00 p.m.
OPENING      SUNDAY                   MAY 18                       6:30 P.M.
                       Tuesday                       May 20                        7:30 p.m. TalkBack
                        Wednesday                  May 21                        7:30 p.m.
                        Thursday                      May 22                        7:30 p.m.
                        Friday                          May 23                        8:00 p.m.
                         Saturday                       May 24                        2:30 p.m.
                         Saturday                       May 24                        8:00 p.m.
                         Sunday                         May 25                        2:30 p.m.
                         Sunday                         May 25                        7:30 p.m.
                         Tuesday                       May 27                        7:30 p.m.
                         Wednesday                  May 28                        7:30 p.m.
                         Thursday                      May 29                        7:30 p.m.
                         Friday                          May 30                        8:00 p.m.
                         Saturday                       May 31                        2:30 p.m.
                         Saturday                       May 31                        8:00 p.m.
                         Sunday                         June 1                          2:30 p.m.
CLOSING      SUNDAY                   JUNE 1                       7:30 P.M.

LE CHAT NOIR NIGHTCLUB. Photo of the scale model of the Alley's Set Design by Douglas W. Schmidt. The Gershwin's AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is showing from April 29 through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org.

TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets to The Gershwins’ An America in Paris start at $40. All tickets to The Gershwins’ An America in Paris are available for purchase at www.alleytheatre.org, at the Alley Theatre Box Office, 615 Texas Avenue, or by calling 713.220.5700. Groups of 10 or more can receive special concierge services by calling 713.315.3346. The added convenience of reservations by phone or Internet is available for a nominal fee.

SPECIAL PERFORMANCES AND EVENTS

ACTOUT
Houston's premiere theatre group for gay and lesbian theatre fans and their friends celebrate the Alley Theatre’s production of The Gershwins’ An America in Paris. To find out more visit www.alleytheatre.org. Groups of 10 or more may purchase tickets at a discounted rate by calling 713.315.3346. Call 713.220.5700 and mention "ActOUT."

MIX & MINGLE
Mix & Mingle is a pre-show mixer that offers food, fun and fabulous new friends. To buy a ticket, please contact the box office at 713.220.5700. For more information about Mix and Mingle, visit www.alleytheatre.org.

CAPTIONED AND AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE
The Alley Theatre is pleased to offer open captioning and audio description for many of our productions throughout the season. To ensure that your seats will accommodate your needs, please call the box office 713.220.5700 when ordering tickets to this performance. Discounted tickets are available for groups of ten or more. Call 713.315.3346 for more information. Sponsored by National Oilwell Varco.

TALKBACK
Members of the cast return to the stage following the 7:30 p.m. performance to take questions from the audience. TalkBacks are led by a member of the Alley Artistic Staff.

MONUMENTAL PICTURES' STUDIO, PARIS. Photo of the scale model of the Alley's Set Design by Douglas W. Schmidt. The Gershwin's AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is showing from April 29 through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org.

# # #

Alley Theatre and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presented A Screening of “An American in Paris”
- Houstonians viewed the Original Movie That Inspired the World Premiere, at MFAH on April 18 – 20, 2008

HOUSTON, TX –Anticipating the Alley Theatre´s world premiere of The Gershwins´ An American in Paris, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) celebrated the play´s inspiration. Featuring the music of George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin, “An American in Paris” stars Gene Kelly as a postwar artist who finds a wealthy patron (Nina Foch) and falls in love with a beautiful girl (Leslie Caron), unaware that she is engaged to one of his friends. Alley Theatre and MFAH presented a screenings of “An American in Paris”, on April 18, 19, and 20, 2008.

What:                          “An American in Paris”
When:                         7:00 p.m. – April 18, 19, and 20, 2008
Where:                        MFAH – Caroline Wiess Law Building (1001 Bissonnet St)

More About The Gershwins’ An American in Paris
The wild and hilarious new musical comedy The Gershwins’ An American in Paris takes us on a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the legendary movie-musical. Reuniting Ken Ludwig, George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin – the team behind the Broadway smash Crazy For You – this new American musical tells the story of Michel Gerard, the greatest music hall singer in Paris. When Michel fails to turn up at Monumental Pictures’ Paris studio for the filming of a new musical, Studio Head Louis Goldman sends his practical, no-nonsense secretary, Rebecca Klemm, to find the missing star – and when the legendary Parisian crosses swords with the indomitable American, nothing short of fireworks ensue. Don’t miss this blissful prequel to the famous movie, featuring some of the best-loved songs written by George and Ira Gershwin including: “S’ Wonderful,” “They All Laughed,” “Stairway to Paradise” and many more.

ALLEY THEATRE TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets to The Gershwins’ An America in Paris start at $40. All tickets to The Gershwins’ An America in Paris are available for purchase at www.alleytheatre.org, at the Alley Theatre Box Office, 615 Texas Avenue, or by calling 713.220.5700. Groups of 10 or more can receive special concierge services by calling 713.315.3346. The added convenience of reservations by phone or Internet is available for a nominal fee.

# # #

Rene and Francois Opening for Business. Photo of the scale model of the Alley's Set Design by Douglas W. Schmidt. The Gershwin's AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is showing from April 29 through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org.

AN AMERICAN IN PARIS Movie Poster. The Gershwin's AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is showing from April 29 through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo courtesy of www.tesco.com

Alley Theatre Partners with ArtBridge Houston for The Gershwins’ An American in Paris Pay-What-You-Can on Saturday, May 3, 2008
-Donate Art Supplies and Buy Tickets for As Little As $15-

HOUSTON, TX— Patrons who bring Art Supplies, especially water colors, pastels, felt tip pens, colored pencils and glitter glue to the Alley Theatre between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 3 can purchase two tickets to the Alley Theatre’s 2:30 p.m. production of The Gershwins’ An American in Paris that day. The minimum price per ticket is $15, but patrons are encouraged to pay what they can. Patrons can drop off donations at the Alley Theatre (615 Texas Avenue) and each household can purchase up to two tickets for a minimum of $15. The art supplies will be used by ArtBridge Houston to bring the expressive arts into the lives of children in Houston-area homeless shelters. The mission of ArtBridge is to provide art programs for homeless children within a supportive environment that encourages creativity.

The wild and hilarious new musical comedy The Gershwins’ An American in Paris takes us on a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the legendary movie-musical. Reuniting Ken Ludwig, George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin – the team behind the Broadway smash Crazy For You – this new American musical tells the story of Michel Gerard, the greatest music hall singer in Paris. When Michel fails to turn up at Monumental Pictures’ Paris studio for the filming of a new musical, Studio Head Louis Goldman sends his practical, no-nonsense secretary, Rebecca Klemm, to find the missing star – and when the legendary Parisian crosses swords with the indomitable American, nothing short of fireworks ensue. Don’t miss this blissful prequel to the famous movie, featuring some of the best-loved songs written by George and Ira Gershwin including: “S’ Wonderful,” “They All Laughed,” “Stairway to Paradise” and many more.

AN AMERICAN IN PARIS Movie starring Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron. The Gershwin's AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is showing from April 29 through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org. Photo courtesy of www.areavoices.com

TICKET INFORMATION
The discount ticket offer is available for walk-up or drop off purchases only with the donation of Arts Supplies. Please note: Limited availability, tickets will be sold on a first come, first serve basis. Tickets are available for the Saturday, May 3 at 2:30 p.m. performance only. Limit of two tickets per household, B-seating only. For more information please contact the Alley Theatre box office, located at 615 Texas Ave., by calling 713.220.5700 or visit www.alleytheare.org

ABOUT ARTBRIDGE HOUSTON
Founded in 1999 by two art therapists, ArtBridge brings the expressive arts into the lives of children in Houston-area homeless shelters. The mission of ArtBridge is to provide art programs for homeless children within a supportive environment that encourages creativity. The program strives to combat the despair of homelessness by nurturing hope and self-esteem through the joy of art expression. ArtBridge serves a population of children already exposed to serious losses and pain such as family upheaval, chaos, neglect and often domestic violence. ArtBridge supports children and their families who struggle every day against tremendous obstacles to provide for their basic needs. Serving approximately 2000 homeless children each year, ArtBridge is expanding and hoping to serve 3000 children in 2008. To support ArtBridge through volunteer and financial donations call 713-527-9850 or log on www.artbridgehouston.org.

Alley Theatre Mix & Mingle Celebrates the World Premiere Production of The Gershwins’ An American in Paris
- Join the Alley Theatre and Birraporetti’s on Wednesday, April 30, 2008

HOUSTON, TX — Now is the time for singles, couples and groups who love the theatre to Mix & Mingle with other likeminded theatre buffs. Mix & Mingle, a mixer for patrons who attend performances “solo” for each regular Hubbard Stage production, hosts a party before the performance of The Gershwins’ An American in Paris on Wednesday, April 30.

On Wednesday, April 30, Mix & Mingle patrons will gather from 6:00 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. at Birraporetti's (500 Louisiana St.). Meet likeminded theatre buffs, enjoy complimentary appetizers, a cash bar and pleasure your taste buds with a specialty drink. Continue the evening by strolling to the Alley Theatre to see the 7:30 p.m. performance of The Gershwins’ An American in Paris.

More About The Gershwins’ An American in Paris
The wild and hilarious new musical comedy The Gershwins’ An American in Paris takes us on a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the legendary movie-musical. Reuniting Ken Ludwig, George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin – the team behind the Broadway smash Crazy For You – this new American musical tells the story of Michel Gerard, the greatest music hall singer in Paris. When Michel fails to turn up at Monumental Pictures’ Paris studio for the filming of a new musical, Studio Chief Louis Goldman sends his practical, no-nonsense secretary, Rebecca Klemm, to find the missing star – and when the legendary Parisian crosses swords with the indomitable American, nothing short of fireworks ensue. Don’t miss this blissful prequel to the famous movie, featuring some of the best-loved songs written by George and Ira Gershwin including: “S' Wonderful,” “They All Laughed,” “Stairway to Paradise” and many more.

The Gershwins’ An American in Paris is generously sponsored by Premiere Sponsors Apache Corporation, BJ Services Corporation, Ira and Leonore Gershwin Trusts, Genie and Bill Johnson and Meredith and Cornelia Long. Additional support is provided by Lead Sponsors Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation, U.S. Trust Bank of America Private Wealth Management, ConocoPhillips, Enbridge Energy Company, Inc., and Pricewaterhouse Coopers. The Alley Theatre is supported by the 2007-2008 season sponsor Continental Airlines, the official airline of the Alley Theatre.

This production is made possible through support provided by the Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts Meredith J. Long Performance Fund, dedicated to the production of new work for the stage.

The Humphreys Foundation has generously supported the artistic work of the Alley Theatre for more than two decades.

This project is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts.

TICKET INFORMATION
The pre-curtain event is free with your ticket to the April 30 performance. Use the promo code: MINGLE. Purchase online or call the Alley Box Office at 713.220.5700, then enter 1. Mix & Mingle tickets begin at $40 and can be purchased online at www.alleytheatre.org, or by calling the Alley Box Office and mentioning Mix & Mingle. Groups of 10 or more can receive special concierge services by calling the group sales department at 713.315.3346. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org.

Alley Theatre ActOUT Partners With SPRY and E.R.S.I.C.S.S., Inc. for The Gershwins' An American in Paris
- Join the Alley Theatre for ActOUT on Thursday, May 8-

HOUSTON –Come join the Alley Theatre in celebration of the world premiere production of The Gershwins' An American in Paris. ActOUT, the Alley Theatre’s popular theatre group for gay and lesbian theatre fans and their friends hosts a night of fun and theatre with a fabulous party on May 8. Join us that evening in showing off your finest Parisian Couture. ActOUT welcomes community partner Seniors Preparing for Rainbow Years (SPRY) and special guest hosts from The Empire of the Royal Sovereign and Imperial Court of the Single Star, Incorporated (E.R.S.I.C.S.S., Inc.).

On Thursday, May 8 ActOUT patrons will gather from 6:00 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. at the Alley Theatre’s 4th Floor Terrace Room, overlooking downtown Houston. Guests can mingle with other GLBT theatre fans; enjoy complimentary appetizers from Hunan Downtown, desserts by TJ’s Catering, beverages from Budweiser, sip the specialty drink and enjoy music by DJ Mike Bell (Six Degrees, Mercury Room). Afterwards, patrons head downstairs to the 7:30 p.m. performance of The Gershwins' An American in Paris.

More About The Gershwins’ An American in Paris
The wild and hilarious new musical comedy The Gershwins’ An American in Paris takes us on a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the legendary movie-musical. Reuniting Ken Ludwig, George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin – the team behind the Broadway smash Crazy For You – this new American musical tells the story of Michel Gerard, the greatest music hall singer in Paris. When Michel fails to turn up at Monumental Pictures’ Paris studio for the filming of a new musical, Studio Chief Louis Goldman sends his practical, no-nonsense secretary, Rebecca Klemm, to find the missing star – and when the legendary Parisian crosses swords with the indomitable American, nothing short of fireworks ensue. Don’t miss this blissful prequel to the famous movie, featuring some of the best-loved songs written by George and Ira Gershwin including: “S' Wonderful,” “They All Laughed,” “Stairway to Paradise” and many more.

More About Seniors Preparing for Rainbow Years
Growing older may be a difficult and lonely time for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender seniors. But you are not invisible, and you are not alone. You shouldn't have to go back into the closet, just because you are getting older and may need help. SPRY (Seniors Preparing for Rainbow Years) strives to shine a light into the lives of GLBT seniors for them to be able to experience prideful, bold and bright rainbow years. SPRY provides mental health and support services for GLBT persons who are age 60 and older, including assessment, peer support, peer groups, counseling, case management and psychiatry. There is no out-of-pocket cost to you. For more information call 713.529.0037 or visit www.montrosecounselingcenter.org.

More About The Empire of the Royal Sovereign and Imperial Court of the Single Star, Incorporated
The purpose of E.R.S.I.C.S.S., Inc. (The Empire of the Royal Sovereign and Imperial Court of the Single Star, Incorporated) is to sponsor, support, and promote community, charitable, and educational programs and efforts; to promote and recognize community leaders and to promote harmony among the people in the community. For more information visit www.ersicss.org.

Ticket Information
The pre-curtain event is free with your ticket to the May 8 performance. Use the promo code: ACTOUT. Purchase online or call the Alley Box Office at 713.220.5700, then enter 1. Groups of 10 or more can receive special concierge services by calling the group sales department at 713.315.3346. For updated information visit www.alleytheatre.org.

2007/2008 ActOUT Community Partners include Budweiser/Silver Eagle Distributors, Hunan-Downtown and TJ’s Catering. The Alley Theatre is sponsored by Continental Airlines, the official airline of Alley Theatre.

Restored Train Station. Photo of the scale model of the Alley's Set Design by Douglas W. Schmidt. The Gershwin's AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is showing from April 29 through June 22, 2008. For more information visit www.alleytheatre.org.