Based on the novel Jean-le-bleu and the play La Femme du Boulanger by Jean Giono and the film by Marcel Pagnol.

The simple plot involves a baker who, after finding that a handsome chauffeur is driving his wife crazy, refuses to supply the town with any more bread until she comes to her senses and returns to him.

The show has never been the success that was expected of it given the pedigree of both Joseph Stein and Stephen Schwartz.

Despite several reworkings, the addition of new songs and Trevor Nunn's direction in 1989, The Baker's Wife folded after a disappointing 56 performances.

Notwithstanding its professional failure The Baker's Wife has proved popular with amateur and regional theatre companies. However. the show is currently on the restricted list owing to problems with the available score.