"Directed by Albert Marre, choreographed by Donald Saddler and orchestrated by Hershy Kay and Eddie Sauter, "Milk and Honey" began its pre-Broadway tryout run at the Shubert Theatre in New Haven on August 28, 1961.The critical reception was positive, but Herman felt leading lady Molly Picon, who clearly was an audience favorite, needed another song and composed "Chin Up, Ladies" for her.