The national tour of The 101 Dalmatians Musical -- directed by Jerry Zaks and featuring a score by Dennis DeYoung and a book by B.T. McNicholl -- has announced dates for its Boston engagement, and will play the Wang Theatre, December 23-27.

Adapted from Dodie Smith's 1957 novel (which is well known due to Disney's beloved animated film version), the story revolves around a canine family that must band together to overcome every hurdle and hardship in the most difficult times, including the machinations of Cruella de Vil. The finale will feature real dalmatians. As previously announced, the tour will star Rachel York as Cruella De Vil.

Zaks is a four time Tony Award winner for productions of The House of Blue Leaves, Lend Me a Tenor, Six Degrees of Separation, and Guys and Dolls. He picked up additional Tony nominations for Anything Goes, Smokey Joe's Café, and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. His most recent Broadway directing credit was Chazz Palminteri's A Bronx Tale.

DeYoung is best known as the lead vocalist and keyboardist of the rock band, Styx. He also penned a musical adaptation of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, seen last season in Chicago. McNicholl's prior credits include The It Girl and the touring stage adaptation of Winnie the Pooh.

For more information visit www.the101dalmatiansmusical.com.