Emily Saliers of Indigo Girls premieres new musical in New Hope, blending her songs with a smart and humorous storyline.
Emily Saliers, known for her role as one half of the beloved folk-rock duo Indigo Girls, has undergone a significant transformation in her view of musical theater. Once a skeptic, Saliers has embraced the genre, collaborating with Tony-nominated actress Beth Malone and writer Mary Ann Stratton on a new musical titled “Starstruck.” This production is premiering at the Bucks County Playhouse, a prestigious venue renowned for its rich historical significance.
“Starstruck” is a contemporary romantic comedy that draws inspiration from Edmond Rostand’s classic work, “Cyrano de Bergerac.” However, it reinterprets the story to center on a lesbian romance involving a podcaster and a park ranger striving for Dark Sky Reserve status in the fictional mountain town of Sawtooth, Idaho. Malone plays the role of ranger-astronomer Cyd DeBerg, while Krysta Rodriguez stars as podcaster Roxanne Cooley. The cast also features Sam Gravitte as a well-meaning but clumsy park ranger, all while Saliers has composed the entire score, providing music and lyrics.
The adaptation of such a classic narrative into a modern context with a focus on LGBTQ representation resonates deeply with Malone, who emphasizes the importance of visibility and inclusivity in artistic endeavors. This element of the production not only highlights a contemporary love story but also tackles the notion of underrepresentation in the arts.
As the team developed “Starstruck,” they explored various themes, including the relationship between science and love, engaging in extensive research on physics and astrophysics to ensure accuracy throughout the narrative. This multi-faceted approach enriches the storyline, allowing audiences to be captivated by the intertwining of cosmic wonder and human emotion.
Saliers, in particular, has experienced a shift in her artistic journey, initially pondering her place within musical theater after an influential experience at a performance of “Dear Evan Hansen.” This newfound passion propelled her into this ambitious project. Despite initial hesitations regarding the integration of existing songs, Saliers ultimately embraced the blending of old and new material, allowing for a dynamic and engaging musical experience.
“Starstruck” is poised for a broader future as its creators aim for a Broadway debut, bolstered by executive producers including prominent figures from the entertainment and sports sectors. The Bucks County Playhouse, which features a 430-seat auditorium along the Delaware River, serves as an ideal setting for this innovative production.
With performances running through March 21, “Starstruck” invites audiences to explore themes of love and aspiration within a breathtaking setting. The anticipation surrounding its evolution reflects the dedication of the creative team and their commitment to fostering a dialogue around representation in theater. For more information about the show and its performances, visit the Bucks County Playhouse website.
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