The great American musical classic An American in Paris is coming to the Washington Center for the Performing Arts for one night only, tonight, Thursday, Jan. 16, at 7 p.m.

The beloved musical features music by George Gershwin and lyrics by Ira Gershwin.

The play was inspired by the 1951 film starring Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron with choreography by Kelly. Adapted for the stage by Christopher Wheeldon, the musical won four Tony Awards. The film won eight Academy Award nominations including Best Picture.

The 80-city tour direct from Broadway features many favorite Gershwin tunes such as "I Got Rhythm," "'S Wonderful" and "Who Could Ask for Anything More," "But Not for Me," "Stairway to Paradise" and orchestral selections including "Concerto in F," "2nd Prelude," "2nd Rhapsody," and "An American In Paris."

This national tour of An American in Paris stars Branson Bice as Jerry Mulligan and Fiona Claire Huber as Lise Dassin, with Daniel Cardenasas as Henri Baurel, TJ Lamando as Adam Hochberg, Bella Muller as Milo Davenport, Jesse Graham Galas as Madame Baurel, Chris Carstenas Monsieur Baurel, Kyle James Adam as Mr. Z, and Maureen Duke as Olga. Directed by Jeffrey B. Moss and features new choreography by Bob Richard.

It is post-war Paris, romance is in the air and youthful optimism reigns. Hoping to start a new life, World War II veteran Jerry Mulligan chooses newly liberated Paris as the place to make a name for himself as a painter. But Jerry's life becomes complicated when he meets Lise, a young Parisian shop girl with her own secret -- and realizes he is not her only suiter.

With music by the Gershwin brothers -- quite possibly America's most celebrated song-writing duo -- and exuberant dancing throughout, this beloved show should bring joy to everyone, from children to grandparents, especially to all who are romantics at heart.

AN AMERICAN IN PARIS, 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 16, The Washington Center main stage, 512 Washington St. SE, Olympia, $64-$119, 360.753.8586, washingtoncenter.org