ASSASSINS Begins Performances at Viaduct Theatre Tonight, 10/10

Billy Pacholski will present "Assassins," music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, book by John Weidman, at the Viaduct Theatre in Chicago, 3111 N. Western Ave. tonight, Oct. 10 - Nov. 10. "Assassins," directed by Pacholski, with music direction by Robert Ollis, begins previews tonight, Oct. 10; press opening is Oct. 12; the show runs through Nov. 10. For more information visit http://www.assassins-chicago.com.

"What better time to produce a musical about frustration with presidents than when we're trying to elect a new one? The 2012 election seems to acting as a catalyst for the animosity and unrest of the American psyche - by fueling negative commentary around our political system and the toll it is taking on the dreams and expectations of The Common man," says Pacholski. "This show is a perfect way to examine extremism in the history of our country, and the underlying angers, hopes, and beliefs of its citizens…in a fun and compelling way!"

Weaving together dream-like narratives of the assassinations and attempted assassinations of the U.S. presidents, Sondheim's Tony Award-winning musical comedy brings to light the pain of alienation, regret, and isolation that underlies each character's failure to achieve the American Dream. The New York Times hails "Assassins" as "an extraordinarily original piece of theater," and the LA Times says "Sondheim's killer musical comedy hits the mark…sidesplitting and sobering in equal measure, this is the most provocative musical in years."

"Billy has assembled a talented cast and design team comprised of some of the most exciting new theater talent in Chicago," says producer Jennifer Marling. "In addition to presenting an impactful and visually exciting production we believe that our performances of "Assassins" promise to raise the level of both social and political discourse in this highly charged election season. Billy's goal is to portray the real human stories of the people on which the musical is based while assuming a contemporary aesthetic sure to connect with savvy audiences. I'm thrilled to be lending my support to this production."

Portraying the "Assassins" will be Sam Button-Harrison (The Balladeer/Lee Harvey Oswald), Nicholas Druzbanski (Samuel Byck), Joey Eovaldi (Billy), Edward Fraim (Charles Guiteau), Libby Lane (Sara Jane Moore), Aram Monisoff (Leon Czolgosz), Kiley Moore (Lynette "Squeaky" Fromme), Ed Rutherford (John Hinckley) , Michael Swisher (Proprietor), Kevin Webb (John Wilkes Booth) and Kris Hyland (Giuseppe Zangara. A talented ensemble including Morgan Glynn Briggs, Parker Guidry, Natalie June and Jameson Wentworth rounds out the cast. 

For tickets or more information visit Assassins-Chicago.com or call  312-212-3470.

Assassins Cabaret Preview - The Gun Song (from Assassins) from Billy Pacholski on Vimeo. 

Assassins Cabaret Preview - Unworthy of Your Love (from Assassins) from Billy Pacholski on Vimeo.