Bells are Ringing

Ella Peterson works in the basement office of her boss, Sue, of "Susanswerphone", a telephone answering service. She listens in on others' lives and adds some interest to her own humdrum existence by adopting different identities – and voices – for her clients. They include Blake Barton, an out-of-work Method actor, Dr. Kitchell, a dentist with musical yearnings but lacking talent, and playwright Jeff Moss, who is suffering from writer's block and desperately needs a muse. Ella considers the relationships with these clients "perfect" because she can't see them and they can't see her ("It's a Perfect Relationship").

When Jeff Moss pleads with Ella for help in writing, she responds, and a romance ensues ("Long Before I Knew You"). Complications arise when Ella thinks that she does not fit in with Jeff's wealthy friends ("The Party's Over"). Adding complications are the police, who are certain the business is a front for an "escort service," and Sandor, the owner's shady boyfriend, who unbeknownst to Sue is using the agency as a bookmaking operation ("It's a Simple Little System").

Opening Night: Tuesday, May 30, 1961 - Closing Night: Saturday, June 10, 1961