Jerry Mitchell to Direct Jennifer Lopez in NBC's Bye Bye Birdie Live!

Tony winner Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots) will direct NBC's upcoming holiday season musical production of Bye Bye Birdie Live! starring music icon Jennifer Lopez. Mitchell will stage the theatrical aspects of the telecast, while two-time Emmy winner Alex Rudzinski will serve as its live television director.

As previously announced, Lopez will take on the role of Rose and serve as executive producer. As with The Wiz and Hairspray, the show is to be adapted for the small screen by Harvey Fierstein. It is set to air in December.

First presented on Broadway in 1960, Bye Bye Birdie features a book by Michael Stewart, music by Charles Strouse, and lyrics by Lee Adams. Set in 1958, the story was inspired by rock 'n' roll stars like Elvis Presley and features a song list that includes "Bye Bye Birdie," "Put on a Happy Face," and "A Mother Doesn't Matter Anymore." Lopez will take on the role of Rosie. No additional casting has been announced.

More information about NBC's live production of Bye Bye Birdie will be revealed in the coming months.