Kicking things up a notch

A world premiere re-envisioning of Cole Porter’s musical “Can-Can,” with a revision of Abe Burrows’ book by David Lee and Joel Fields, sanctioned by Porter’s estate. Set among the demimonde of Paris in 1893, the musical swirls around the tale of a judge and a woman whose hotspot cafe is in danger of being shut down due to its main attraction -- the scandalous cancan dance. Lee, who directs the 22-member cast, and Fields include some real historical context by adding characters who were actual Moulin Rouge performers.

“Can-Can,” Pasadena Playhouse, 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena. Opens 8 p.m. Friday. Runs 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 4 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays. Exceptions: 2 p.m. only July 25, dark July 10. Ends Aug. 5. $40 to $71. (626) 356-7529; www.Pasadenaplayhouse.org.