There are people in history who are known to just about everyone by their first names alone. I’m sure you can think of a handful right now. Fred and Ginger. There are two names that I can write without last names and you know exactly who I am talking about – Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. There are movies, books, dance studios, and countless collector dolls dedicated to this magical, dancing pair who gave the world so much happiness during such troubled times.

Until you look at the two artists separately, though, you don’t really see their true charm. Together they are iconic. Separately they are real people with inspiring stories.

In light of that, it’s exciting to see that there is a brand, new musical based on the life of Ginger Rogers coming to fruition. It’s inspired not only by Ginger Rogers herself, but on the book “Ginger and Me” authored by Libby Hughes (who also penned the lyrics for the musical).

Previewing at the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus, “Ginger and Me” will have its official debut in Ginger’s hometown, Rancho Mirage, California this coming February. In April, the Ginger Rogers Musical moves to North Hollywood in the El Portal Theatre. You can buy tickets now.