MANSFIELD, OHIO. When four friends in NYC put their heads together to write an award-winning musical the task proves to be more difficult than they anticipated. Stumble along with them through the process when [title of show], the final production of this year’s Hudson & Essex Black Box Series, opens Saturday, May 27th at 8:00 PM with additional performances Sunday, May 28th, Saturday, June 3rd, and Sunday, June 4th.
"[title of show] is a one-act musical, with music and lyrics by Jeff Bowen and a book by Hunter Bell. The show chronicles its own creation as an entry in the New York Musical Theatre Festival, and follows the struggles of the author and composer/lyricist and their two actress friends during the initial brief (three-week) creative period, along with subsequent events leading up to the show's production.
Throughout the show, fans of musical theatre will enjoy all the easter eggs and references to other works. The show is a quick-paced comedy with 4th wall breaks and hilarious songs. [title of show] is a perfect night of laughter for fans of The Last Act, Spamalot, Once, Avenue Q, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Director Ryan Shealy (Annie, Next to Normal) describes the relatable story these characters embark on of navigating the creative process, something everyone has experienced at one point or another.
“[title of show] is incredibly funny and entertaining, but it also has some beautiful and truthful things to say. about the creative process and the anxiety of art.”
A talented crew and cast work together in a few short weeks to bring this production to life. The cast is made up of just 4 individuals, Jacob Poiner (Next to Normal, Spring Awakening, Cabaret) plays Jeff and serves as Music Director for the show alongside Noah Casner of New York making his second appearance on the Renaissance Stage shortly after his debut in Follies. Renaissance regular Leah Gesouras (Follies, Sister Act, Something Rotten!, The Music Man) and returning favorite Izzi Robles who starred in the 2019 production of Hairspray round out the cast. [title of show] will be Directed by Ryan Shealy with Set Design by Jason Kaufman and Costumes by Linda Turske.
Audiences are in for an evening of laughter, the perfect kick-start to Summer, with [title of show] opening May 27th - June 4th at Theatre 166. Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office or online by visiting rentickets.org.