Passing Strange at Berkeley Rep, World Premiere Oct. 19

The world premiere of Passing Strange - a new and unique musical theatre experience loaded with soulful lyrics, political irony, and passion - begins performances at Berkeley Repertory Theatre Oct. 19, opening Oct. 25.Passing Strange features a book and lyrics by Stew, with music by Stew and Heidi Rodewald.

"The heartfelt and hilarious new musical is about a young black bohemian who charts a course for 'the real' through sex, drugs, and rock and roll," states press notes, "The show takes us from black, middle-class America to Amsterdam, Berlin, and beyond. It's a quirky journey from L.A. to authenticity, crossing boundaries of place, identity, and theatrical convention on the way.Stew's unique sound has been dubbed Afro-Baroque cabaret, and Entertainment Weekly has twice named his CDs Album of the Year. His songs have won praise for their hook-filled melodies, taut poetic narratives, incisive portraits, and sardonic sense of humor. Join Stew and this remarkable line-up of actors and musicians for Passing Strange before it hits New York."

Directed by and created in collaboration with Annie Dorsen and designed by David Korins (sets), Annie Smart (costumes), Kevin Adams (lights), and Jake Rodriguez (sound).Starring De'Adre Aziza, Daniel Breaker, Eisa Davis, Colman Domingo, Chad Goodridge, and Rebecca Jones; featuring a band with Marc Doten, Russ Kleiner, Heidi Rodewald, Jon Spurney, and Stew.

Preview performances are Oct. 19 - 24, with an opening Oct. 25, and performances through Dec. 3.Show times are Tuesdays and Fridays at 8:00PM; Wednesdays at 7:00PM; Thursdays and Saturdays at 2 & 8:00PM; Sundays at 2 & 7:00PM.There are no matinees during previews or on Oct. 26, Nov. 4, 9, or 18.There are no performances Nov. 23.

Berkeley Rep's Thrust Stage is located at 2025 Addison Street, one block from Berkeley's downtown BART station and close to AC Transit bus lines. The theatre is accessible to the handicapped, offering wheelchair seating and special services for those with hearing- or vision-impairment.

Tickets ($33-$61) can be purchased by calling 510-647-2949 or 888-4-BRT-Tix, or visit www.berkeleyrep.org.  Discounts (subject to availability): Half-price tickets available to those under 30 (some restrictions apply); half-price rush tickets for students and seniors are sold 30 minutes before curtain; and groups of 15+ may contact 510-647-2918 or groups@berkeleyrep.org.

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