Based on the 1996 movie of the same name, the show about bitter ex-wives has a score by Motown writers Lamont Dozier, Brian Holland and Eddie Holland.
Songs by Holland-Lamont-Holland have been recorded by Rod Stewart, Michael Jackson, James Taylor, Marvin Gaye, The Dixie Chicks, The Supremes, Martha and the Vandellas, The Four Tops, The Isley Brothers, Freda Payne, The Carpenters, Barbra Streisand, Reba McEntire, The Temptations, Dionne Warwick, The Jackson Five and The Beatles to name just a few.
Their song hits include "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)," "Baby I Need Your Loving," "Stop! In the Name of Love," "You Can't Hurry Love" and "I Can't Help Myself."
The librettist is Tony Award winner Rupert Holmes (The Mystery of Edwin Drood).
Francesca Zambello (Broadway's The Little Mermaid and the Guthrie's Little House on the Prairie) will direct. The staging is reportedly scheduled to play the Globe July 15-Aug. 23, 2009, prior to Broadway. No casting has been announced. The popular 1996 Paramount film "The First Wives Club" — about three divorced women who seek revenge on their former husbands — was based on Olivia Goldsmith's novel and featured a screenplay by Robert Harling. The motion picture grossed over $130 million and starred Bette Midler, Goldie Hawn and Diane Keaton.
"The Old Globe has sent over 20 productions on to Broadway and this new musical is one of the most exciting projects that we have ever had the privilege to produce," stated Old Globe executive producer Lou Spisto. "Countless millions of people grew up singing along to the hits of Holland-Dozier-Holland and their songs continue to have an enormous impact on each new generation. To have them composing original music for this world premiere at The Old Globe is beyond exciting. With the multi-talented Tony Award-winner Rupert Holmes writing the book and one of the most sought after directors in both the world of Opera and the theatre, Francesca Zambello, at the helm, this universally beloved story is sure to bring a thrilling new theatrical experience to San Diego audiences."
The musical will be produced on Broadway by Paul Lambert and Jonas Neilson, with a theatre and dates to be announced.
Tickets to First Wives Club — The Musical are currently available by subscription by contacting the Globe Box Office at (619) 23-GLOBE or online at www.TheOldGlobe.org.
