BWW Preview: HANDS ON A HARDBODY, Coming to the Newly Renamed Levin Stage

Hand on a Hardbody opens the Unicorn Theatre's 41st season on September 3, on the newly renamed Levin Stage. In a ceremony on August 10 The Unicorn Theatre renamed the Main Stage to honor Producing Artistic Director Cynthia Levin.

Missy Koonce directs the Unicorn production of Hands on a Hardbody, with book by Doug Wright, lyrics by Amanda Green, and music by Trey Anastasio and Amanda Green. The production sponsored by the Theater League includes musical direction by Angie Benson and choreography by Christina Burton.

A new rock musical Hands on a Hardbody is the tale of 10 Texans who fight to keep one hand on a brand-new truck in order to win it. Armed with only hope and ambition they compete under a scorching hot sun for days. Hands on a Hardbody is based on true events of the acclaimed 1997 documentary by S. R. Bindler and Kevin Morris. It is an ultimate human drama with camaraderie, faith, determination, and competition. Accompanied by a five-piece band the cast will perform songs including "I'm Gone," "Stronger," "Hands on a Hardbody," and "Keep Your Hands On It."

Featuring: Marc Liby as J.D., Sara Kennedy (Unicorn debut) as Kelli, Tim Scott as Benny, Daniel Beeman (Unicorn debut) as Greg, Shea Coffman as Chris, Sam Salary (Unicorn debut) as Ronald, Jessalyn Kincaid as Heather, Julie Shaw as Virginia, Matthew James McAndrews as Mike, Trista Smith as Cindy, Francisco Javier Villegas as Jesus, Victoria Barbee as Norma, Cathy Barnett as Janis, Vincent Onofrio Monachino as Frank and Martin Buchanan as Don/Dr. Stokes.

Previews of Hands on a Hardbody run September 3 through September 5. Opening night is Saturday September 6 and the show runs through September 28. Performances run at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Tuesday and Wednesday performances are included in the Unicorn Theatre's Pay What U Can promotion. September 9, 14, and 21 will be talk back performances, when audience members are encouraged to stay after the show to discuss it with the actors and directors.

Purchase tickets by calling 816-531-7529 extension 10, in person at the theatre box office, or online at the Unicorn Theatre website. Discounts are available for seniors (65+), students, and patrons under the age of 30.