BLACKFISH THE MUSICAL to Premiere in Chicago

"Blackfish The Musical" makes its World Premiere in Chicago, IL. Based off of the controversial 2013 documentary, Blackfish The Musical shows audiences the operations of "the greatest place on Earth," the marine animal amusement park known as Sea Universe.

With their famous killer whale, Cumcum overloaded with performances and kept in the conditions of Sea Universe, a tragic incident occurs when Head Trainer, Cybil Bass, preps in-between shows. Blackfish The Musical is a satirical story that parodies the lives of these characters who work behind-the-scenes of Sea Universe and hopefully sends a message to general audiences about whales in captivity.

Jesse is a new employee at Sea Universe and learns on his first day that a lot of things don't seem right at this animal amusement park. With Head Trainer, Cybil Bass, showing him the ropes, he sees how Cumcum the star whale is treated while also growing affection for the trainer. At the head office, CEO of Sea Universe, Allison Hamster, pushes these employees and knows what keeps the money rolling in. When Cumcum attacks Cybil, the next trainer in line to get the spotlight is Trent. However, Cybil awakens from a coma to show that she can telepathically communicate with Cumcum. This leads to her mission to release the whale. Does Cybil succeed in releasing Cumcum or does she get stopped by Allison Hamster? Does Trent finally get the recognition he deserves at Sea Universe as a great trainer and better performer than Cybil? And does Jesse win the heart of Cybil while also making a positive impression at his new job? Blackfish The Musical will answer all these questions while showcasing original songs and dance.

"Blackfish The Musical" makes its 6-week run every Saturday at 7:30 pm (CST) from March 5th thru April 9th, 2016, at MCL Chicago, 3110 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL 60657.

Tickets are $10 for General Admission and may be purchased at the theater box office, or by phone (773-610-5930), or online at: www.mclchicago.com/blackfish-the-musical.html .

All profit ticket sales will be donated to a marine wildlife conservation charity.

"Blackfish The Musical" features Lisa Akroush, Stephanie Branco, Natalie Carneal, Alex DiVirgilio, Dylan Guzman, Kathryn Hammen, Cole Headrick, Kristin Phillips, Morgan Phillips-Spotts, Terrance Rogers, Dustin Sharpe, and Elliot Simmons.

Music performed by the Cumcum Cabana Band featuring Randy Bryant (bass), Katie Foster (piano), and Michael Vuckovich (drums).

Written by Cole Hintz, Meredith Messerle, Thomas Simmons, and Matt Tarpey. Dance Choreography by Teresa Leahey. Musical Direction & Composition by Katie Foster. Technical Lighting and Design by Caitlin Boylan.
Directed by Jonald Jude Reyes.