Report: Goodman Theatre will launch a weeklong Leonard Bernstein Celebration in conjunction with the company’s revival of the 1953 Broadway musical “Wonderful Town,” with music by Bernstein and lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green.

As rehearsals of the vintage musical “Wonderful Town” get underway at the Goodman under the direction of Mary Zimmerman, the Theatre announced other events surrounding the legendary show that kicks off the 2016-17 season. Several free performances and activities begin two weeks into the musical’s Sept.10-Oct. 16 run.

“Wonderful Town” follows Ohio sisters Eileen and Ruth, who leave home to pursue careers and romance in the Big Apple.

On Sept. 27, Goodman artists will discuss Leonard Bernstein’s multifaceted career as a composer of musicals, film and classical music, as well as conductor, musician and educator. Zimmerman, music director Doug Peck and some of the cast members will talk about behind-the-scenes aspects of his work and present songs from his best-known productions. Bernstein, who died in 1990, wrote “Wonderful Town” in 1953, followed by “Candide” and “West Side Story” later in the same decade.

Other free events scheduled Sept. 28-Oct. 1 include Bernstein’s televised “Young People’s Concerts” and “Omnibus” lectures; and screenings of films with Bernstein scores “On the Waterfront,” “On the Town” and “West Side Story.”

Of special note is “Conga! Swing!” on Oct. 1 — an instructional dance class open to the general public highlighting some of the choreographic moves in “Wonderful Town.”

Tickets are free to these events, but reservations are required via http://www.goodmantheatre.org/season/1617-Season/Leonard-Bernstein-Celebration/Special-Events/

Related Link:

• Goodman Theatre 2016-17 season preview: Read it at ChicagoOntheAisle.com