It's hot, there's been no rain and Lizzie's not feeling very well herself.
Those are the basic elements in "110 in the Shade," the Leap of Faith Productions musical that opens at St. Luke United Methodist Church on Thursday, but director Blake Harris said there is much more to behold.
"It's so different, it truly is, than most musicals," he said. "I have had so many cast members say they've never worked on a musical like this. It challenges (stereotypical) social roles. It's relevant to today's audiences. It seamlessly integrates humor into this dramatic work yet holds its integrity. It's just such a solid work."
The musical is based on N. Richard Nash's play "The Rainmaker" and has music by Harvey Schmidt and lyrics by Tom Jones, the same duo who teamed up for "The Fantasticks."
Harris said the music is beautiful, some of it reminiscent of "The Fantasticks."
IF YOU GO* What: "110 in the Shade."* When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday and July 16-17, July 22-24; 2:30 p.m. July 18, July 25.* Where: St. Luke United Methodist Church, 3210 Social Circle.* Admission: Free (love offering taken).* Phone: 877-6447.
"It has a classical musical theater style," he said, "but it's very romantic."
In the play, set in the restless heat of the 1930s Dust Bowl-era Southwest, aging, single Lizzie is feeling discontent in her search for love.
The musical explores the relationship between Lizzie and cautious divorcé File and charismatic newcomer Starbuck, who claims he can bring relief to the drought.
Harris said he chose the play, which first appeared on Broadway in 1963 and was revived in 2007, because of the exploration it allows of the social roles of men and women of the era.
"I'm attracted to pieces that explore gender roles (and) gender expectations," he said.
Harris said "Simple Little Things" may be the best-known song in the show, but he said it's a tossup as to his favorite.
"I love every piece," he said, "and that's very rare for me. I'm very particular."
Among the most poignant songs to Harris, he said, are "Everything Beautiful Happens at Night," which "is able to capture the essence of the idea of blossoming romance and vulnerable hope that goes along with that," and "The Hungry Men," an example of the exploration of social roles.
"110 in the Shade" has a cast of 25. Harris doubles as musical director, Mike LaRoche conduct the orchestra and Emily White handles the choreography.
Lizzie is portrayed by Leap of Faith veteran Rebecca Clark, and Harris said he is awed at her work.
"It's such an athletic musical role," he said, "It's a such a demanding role, one of the most challenging she has ever played. (The role has) such a wide emotional range, but she handles it with grace and transparency."