THE ROAR OF THE BUTTERFLY Plays Pre-Off-Broadway Engagement Now thru 5/20

KMP Artists presents vocalist, actor and songwriter Spider Saloff and her one-woman musical, "The Roar of the Butterfly" at Victory Gardens' Richard Christiansen Theater, now through May 20, 2012. In the tradition of Lilly Tomlin and Tracey Ullman, Saloff portrays eight different characters in this hysterical and moving new musical comedy. 

"The Roar of the Butterfly" features a book, music, and lyrics by Saloff. Contributing writers are Jim Sellers (who is also musical director and arranger) and Steve Ramsdell. Pianist is Jeremy Kahn.  "The Roar of the Butterfly," was initially performed in Melbourne and Tazmania to sold-out crowds, followed by a successful run this past summer in Los Angeles. With this engagement, Saloff brings the production to her hometown before off-Broadway and Edinburgh Fringe Festival engagements.

The setting for "The Roar of the Butterfly" is the memorial service for Butterfly, an Asian drag queen who has been a colorful and inspirational character in the lives of the attendees - an unlikely and diverse group all portrayed by Saloff -  including a sharp-tonguEd Scottish waitress, a faded stage star, a hair dresser from South Philly and a bearded poet.

Based on a true story "The Roar of the Butterfly" is a musical comedy tour de force with a message and contains poignant moments touching on subjects of diversity, human loss and dysfunctional relationships. Essentially, "The Roar of the Butterfly" is about how one unusual life affects so many others. 

Ticket prices are $25 for the Wednesday, May 2 preview; $32 for performances May 3 – 20. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, Feb. 15. For tickets call the box office at 773-871-3000 or visit victorygardens.org.