22 shows to open on B'way this season

NEW YORK, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- Twenty-two new productions, including revivals of "Hair," "West Side Story" and "Guys and Dolls," are to open on New York's Broadway this season.

The shows are to start their runs in advance of the 2009 Tony Awards eligibility cut-off date of April 30.

"As our country is currently transitioning to a new administration that supports arts education, Broadway is continuing its tradition of bringing in new plays and musicals to delight both first time and avid theatergoers," Charlotte St. Martin, executive director of The Broadway League, said in a statement. "Broadway is a transporting experience that provides a unique value to the audience. Whether you need to escape from your day or if you just want to kick back and have some fun, the intimacy of live theater has never been more important to our culture."

Nina Lannan, chairman of The Broadway League, added: "It's incredibly easy to buy tickets by phone, online, or in person at the theater box offices. There is a show for everyone, whether you like to laugh or cry, sing along or dance in the aisles ... and with a wide range of available prices."

Productions of "Soul of Shaolin," "Hedda Gabler," "You're Welcome America: A Final Night with George W. Bush" and "The American Plan" are now playing.

The season will also include revivals of "9 to 5," "Blithe Spirit," "Exit the King" and "Waiting for Godot."