HALLOWELL – For its summer musical, the Gaslight Theater hopes to succeed with “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” a 1960s era musical starring Robert Morse.

The musical follows the rise of J. Pierrepont Finch, who uses a little handbook called “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” to climb the corporate ladder from lowly window washer to high-powered executive.

The show was Winner of the 1962 Pulitzer Prize for Best New American Drama and NY Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.

This musical has Bill Haley as artistic director and Marcia Gallagher as musical director.

“When I first heard the music from this show several years ago,” said Haley, “I couldn’t stop humming and singing it.

“I really wanted to audition for the part of J. B. Biggley. What a fun role. But there weren’t any theater companies in the area doing this show.”

Haley enjoys performing in musicals and, even though he would rather be in the show than watching it, decided to propose this show as director.

Gallagher was musical director for last year’s production of “Of Thee I Sing.”

She teaches at St. Mary’s and St. Augustine’s (general music), is an adjunct faculty at UMA teaching vocal jazz, and also has a private teaching practice for the past 20 years.

“I enjoy all kinds of music and try not to limit myself to any one style.”

Gallagher has put together a jazz combo for the show.

“How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” will be staged June 30, July 1 and 2, and 7, 8 and 9 at Hallowell City Hall, 1 Winthrop St. Curtain times are: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

For information, call (207) 626-3698.