The short story that it's based on is a contemporary classic, at least in my circles, and definitely worth reading. The musical has been in development for quite a while, and it had a NYMF production about five or so years ago. Original lyricist Ellen Schwartz passed away a few years ago, which I imagine is why there are now "additional lyrics by Cheryl Stern." Prior to becoming one of the writers, Stern wrote about rehearsing (as one of the performers) for NYMF - link below
