Arena Stage artistic director and director of the upcoming musical “The Light in the Piazza,” Molly Smith, talks about when she was very first introduced to the play and what drew her to it, and she also introduces the production’s Musical Director Paul Sportelli. “The Light in the Piazza” book by Craig Lucas music and lyrics by Adam Guettel produced by arrangement with Turner Entertainment Co., owner of the original motion picture “Light in the Piazza” based on the novel by Elizabeth Spencer directed by Molly Smith March 5 – April 11, 2010 in Crystal City One windy day in the Tuscan countryside, Clara loses her hat in a sudden gust, and as if guided by fate, it lands at the feet of the handsome Fabrizio. As their whirlwind courtship unfolds, Clara’s mother, Margaret, is unable to conceal the family secret and must reconsider not only her daughter’s future but her own as well. Arena’s own Molly Smith directs an intimate, chamber version of this musical that won six Tony Awards (including Best Score) and hearts across the country, being hailed “a magnificent theatrical achievement” (Chicago Tribune) and “absolutely transfixing” (San Francisco Chronicle). Craig Lucas (Prelude to a Kiss) has distilled Elizabeth Spencer’s novella to a poignant tale about the essence of love, aided by the lush music of Adam Guettel (Floyd Collins). The Light in the Piazza is sponsored by Margot Kelly and Ira Meiselman. The Arena Stage musical theater season is sponsored by Jaylee Mead. Arena Stage productions in Crystal City are sponsored by the Crystal City Business Improvement District (BID).

Visit GuideForTheArts.com