The title of a new Off-Broadway musical about The Mamas and the Papas has been changed from California Dreamin’ to Dream a Little Dream and the show has pushed its preview and opening dates back two weeks to March 28 and April 14, respectively.
According to a statement from producer Eric Nederlander, the change in title was made in deference to original Mamas and the Papas member Michelle Phillips, whose autobiography is titled California Dreamin’. (Dream a Little Dream was the show’s title when it was first presented in Toronto in June 2001.) The New York preview and opening dates were changed due to the technical demands of the production.
“Papa” Denny Doherty will star in the musical, which tells the story of The Mamas and the Papas from their Greenwich Village origins to their success in Los Angeles and at the Monterey Pop Festival, through the tragic, early death of group member Cass Elliot. The show includes such songs as “California Dreamin’,” “Dedicated To The One I Love,” “I Saw Her Again,” “Monday Monday,” “Dream A Little Dream” and “San Francisco (Be Sure To Wear Some Flowers In Your Hair).”
Dream a Little Dream was written by Doherty and Paul Ledoux, and will be directed by Randal Myler (Love, Janis, Hank Williams: Lost Highway). The show will feature sets by Walt Spanger (Hollywood Arms), costumes by David C. Woolard (The Rocky Horror Show), lights by Peter Kaczorowski (The Producers, Contact), and projections by Jan Hartley (Imaginary Friends).
The show will play at the Village Theater (158 Bleecker Street, between Sullivan and Thompson). Tickets are $80-$45 and may be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 212-307-4100.