Born as a 1930s comic series, the musical comedy, “Li’l Abner,” is this year’s production for the Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts’ Musical Theatre department’s annual fundraiser show.

Due to popular demand, there are two additional show times this year, expanding its run from six to eight performances. There are also opportunity baskets and a silent auction to bid on during the preshow. Items offered include vacation packages, spa days and family night bundles.

About Li’l Abner

Based on the characters created by Al Capp and with lyrics by Johnny Mercer, music by Gene de Paul, this version of “Li’l Abner” is based on the book by Norman Panama and Melvin Frank. If you’re looking for a fun-filled, foot-stompin’ musical taken directly from the comics, then Li’l Abner is for you! It’s pure entertainment - a side-splitting extravaganza for all. “If I Had My Druthers,” “Jubilation T. Cornpone,” “Namely You” and “The Country’s In The Very Best of Hands” will keep you laughing and loving. The show is laced with gentle satire, rib-tickling humor, and a host of brash, catchy characters and tunes from composer, Johnny Mercer. Come on down to “Dawgpatch” where the gals are “Purdy” and the guys are “Gorrrgeous!”

Where do sales go?

Donations assist in providing workshops, master classes, purchasing stage and rehearsal equipment for classroom and stage shows and supplemental funding for additional performances and community outreach activities by the APA Musical Theatre students.