Rehearsals have started for “Girlfriend” at the Center Theatre Group/Kirk Douglas Theatre, and previews will begin on Sunday, July 12.

Featuring a book by Todd Almond and music and lyrics by Matthew Sweet, the rock musical about first love will open on Sunday, July 19. Performances continue through Sunday, Aug. 9.

Reprising their roles from the 2013 Actors Theatre of Louisville production of Girlfriend are Ryder Bach (Randy Newman’s “Harps and Angels” at the Mark Taper Forum) and Curt Hansen (“Parade” at the Taper and “Next to Normal” at the Ahmanson).

Director Les Waters directed the Actors Theatre production, as well as the world premiere production at Berkeley Repertory Theatre.

The scenic and costume designs for Girlfriend are by David Zinn, lighting design is by Ben Stanton and sound design is by Jake Rodriguez. Music direction is by Julie Wolf and choreography is by Joe Goode.

Ms. Wolf also conducts the band, comprised of Vivi Rama on bass, Janet Robin on lead guitar, Jyn Yates on drums and Wolf on keyboard and guitar. Production stage manager is Paul Mills Holmes.

Set in Nebraska in the 1990s, two teenage boys – one a social outcast, the other the quintessential jock – explore a relationship during a summer of self-discovery between high school graduation and the rest of their lives.

Ms. Avila may be contacted at

kavila@centertheatregroup.org