LONG BEACH -- “Daddy Long Legs,” the rags-to-riches story of newfound love, will open International City Theatre’s 33rd season Feb. 23 at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center. 

Performances will continue through March 11. There will be two low-priced previews Feb. 21-22. 
Based on the classic novel by Jean Webster, “Daddy Long Legs” is a tale in the spirit of Jane Austen and the Bronte Sisters. 

Jerusha Abbott is the oldest orphan in the John Grier Home, until a mysterious benefactor sends her to a prestigious women’s college to be educated. Required to write him a letter once a month, she is never to know his identity -- so she invents one for him: Daddy Long Legs. 

“Daddy Long Legs” had its world premiere at the Rubicon Theatre in Ventura in 2009 before going on to productions in London’s West End, off-Broadway and around the world. 

Tickets to the Feb. 21-22 previews are $35; regular performances are $47-$49. Opening night tickets are $55 and include a post-show reception. 

For tickets or information, go to internationalcitytheatre.org or call (562) 436-4610.