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This October Underscore Theatre Company, a new musical theatre company dedicated to exploring the use of music in theatre through original work and re-imagined productions of established plays, has announced the first annual fundraiser performance of "The Rocky Horror Show" at Chicago's Underground Lounge with a newly orchestrated score.
The company includes ensemble members Alex Higgin-Houser, David Kornfeld, and Laura Stratford, who collaboratively wrote and produced "Grind: The (coffee shop, comic book) Musical!" for the Midwest Fringe Tour, performing to sold-out audiences in Kansas City, Minneapolis, Indianapolis, and at Chicago's own Dream Theatre. "Grind" earned five stars in the Kansas City Stage, rave reviews at the Minnesota Fringe, and attention and recommendations across the board, from publications like Metromix, the Pioneer Press, the City Pages, the Chicago RedEye, and TimeOut Chicago. The company has been called "ridiculously talented" by KC Stage and an "energetic, talented, brave, strong collaborative group" by IndyFringe. Fringe blogger Matthew Everett calls their writing "enchanting and sharp." Prior to the Fringe Tour, the company wrote and produced "Liberal Arts: The Musical," which by popular demand performed an extended run in the greater Minnesota area.
This production of "Rocky Horror" imagines the musical taking place as Brad and Janet fall asleep in an old-fashioned movie theater and together dream of the stars and creatures they have seen in the previews and posters emerging to tell their own story. The music, orchestrated by David Kornfeld, introduces a wider variety of musical styles such as gospel, doo-wop, and rock into such well-loved songs as "Hot Patootie," "Dammit, Janet," and "Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch Me." Director Alex Higgin-Houser says, "Rocky Horror is a cult favorite and we've been in love with it for a long time. Devoted fans have been making it an interactive experience for years, with props, catcalls and dancing along, and we're taking that a step farther: our Rocky is loud, proud, and the most immersive experience you can get this side of Transsexual, Transylvania." He adds, "I cannot freakin' wait."
"The Rocky Horror Show" will perform Thursday through Saturday from October 20th to October 30th at 8pm with midnight shows on Saturdays and a Sunday performance on the 30th (technically the 31st!). Tickets are suggested donation of $18-25 dollars and can be purchased at the door. Pre-show begins an hour before the show and is fully interactive and not to be missed. Come fall in love with Rocky all over again in this fully orchestrated, live musical version of "The Rocky Horror Show!"For additional information about "The Rocky Horror Show" or Underscore Theatre Company, contact Laura Stratford or visit chicagorocky.com.
"The Rocky Horror Show," presented by Underscore Theatre Company, will perform at The Underground Lounge, 952 West Newport Avenue, in Lakeview, 60657.
