For the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, a live orchestra will return to the Smithfield Little Theatre this Friday for the opening night of the musical “She Loves Me.”

The theatre’s website describes the production as a warm, romantic comedy based on the 1936 Hungarian play “Parfumerie” by Miklos Laszlos. 

“She Loves Me” originally debuted on Broadway in the 1960s. Laszlos’s play was also the inspiration for the 1998 romantic comedy “You’ve Got Mail,” starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks.

Smithfield’s production of “She Loves Me,” stars Hampton Roads Academy senior Beth Goddin and Christopher Newport University graduate Cory Steiger as 1930s perfumery shop clerks Amalia Balash and Georg Nowack. The show’s online synopsis states Amalia and Georg more often than not don’t see eye to eye, but each respond to a “lonely hearts” advertisement in the newspaper. Now they live for the love letters they exchange but the identity of their admirers remain unknown.

The show also stars Andrew Smith, Grace Fitzpatrick, Jeff Joyner, John Post and Bob Neel.

Performances are scheduled every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through May 28.

Friday and Saturday performances start at 8 p.m. and Sundays, at 230 p.m.

The show is directed by Jenn Melms and produced by Mark Hall.

“We are thrilled to welcome the return of the live orchestra to our musicals,” Melms said. “SLT strives to provide live music for all of our musical productions which was unfortunately halted due to COVID restrictions and trying to provide a safe environment for all volunteers. SLT also prides ourselves on being a 100% volunteer based organization, and this includes our musicians.”

The orchestra is composed of 16 individuals from all across Hampton Roads, directed by Trey Gwaltney, a lifetime member of SLT. Melms noted SLT welcomes orchestra members of all ages and experience levels.

Tickets can be purchased at www.smithfieldlittletheatre.org.