Albert, I'm sure you know (assuming I'm remembering correctly) there was an earlier "original" script that dealt with ocean liner passengers shipwrecked on a desert island. It was abandoned when a real-life maritime catastrophe made "sinking ship jokes" unfunny.
So the version that was first performed was already a substitute for the original book.
About a decade ago, UCLA got permission to do the original script of BABES IN ARMS, so it can be done, depending on the willingness of the rights holders. (ETA I now see PJ's post. I'm sure he's right that whoever controls the Porter rights will not want racist lyrics performed.)
FWIW, the UCLA production I mention was well done, but the effect was a bit like a trip to a museum (not that there's anything wrong with that).
Updated On: 6/28/14 at 08:58 PM