Cochise College, in conjunction with Off Broadway Theatre, will present Stephen Sondheim’s “Merrily We Roll Along” as this year’s summer theater project. Performances are planned for July 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, and 26 at the Off Broadway Theatre, 4151 La Linda Way.

This musical adaptation of the 1934 Kaufman and Hart play transforms the story of three remarkable talents looking back on their lost friendship.

Franklin, Mary, and Charley grew up to realize their dreams but may have paid a greater price than they originally anticipated. Frank’s heart-wrenching question - “Why?!” - begins the journey back in time, recalling triumphs and successes, failures, rivalries, and love sought and lost.

Better known for the hits “Into the Woods,” “Sunday in the Park with George,” “A Little Night Music,” “Company,” and “Follies,” “Merrily We Roll Along” is not recognized as one of Sondheim’s most noted works; it tends to be forgotten among many theater lovers - even the most avid of patrons.

But director Joe Morris recently came across it and fell in love with all the story’s complexities.

Songs such as “Franklin Shepard, Inc.,” “Old Friends,” and “Not a Day Goes By” are among the many selections attributed to the musical masterpiece.

“The story is rich and the music is haunting,” says Morris. “Perhaps a reason I love it so much is I can see a glimpse of my own story in the lives of these three best friends.”

Morris and musical director Rick Stahl are both excited to work with such a talented cast this summer.

The three inseparable friends (Frank, Mary, and Charley) are played by Bisbee Repertory Theater actor and patron Jeremy Heisner, Off-Broadway Theatre Artistic Director Chris Sancho, and newcomer singing heart-throb Gabriel Brown, respectively. Emily Witkop plays sassy Broadway star Gussie Carnegie, while Ray Brown portrays hot shot producer Joe Josephson.

Other noted performers include Christina Chang as Beth, Denise DeVinney as news reporter KT, and Jordan Meacham as Frank Jr. Kylie Naughton-Richards, Christian Richards, Anthony Pendleton, Cari Chlarson, Ashley Morris, Rube Caraballo, Bill Willis, and Audree Vahn complete the ensemble.

This fine production opens in July for two weekends only. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. July 17, 18, 24, 25, and 26 and at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 19.

Tickets are now on sale for $15 each at Off Broadway Theatre, (520) 459-4332; payment is required at the time of reservation.

Anyone needing an accommodation in order to attend should contact the Disability Services Office, (520) 515-5337 or (520) 417-4023, at least 72 hours in advance.