Current Season
THE THREEPENNY OPERABy Bertolt Brecht and Kurt WeillDirected by Leslie SwackhamerChristi Macelaru, Musical Director & Conductor
Winner of three Tony Awards, The Threepenny Opera revolutionized musical theater by overcoming superficiality and mere story telling in favor of presenting ideas. Written by Bertolt Brecht (book and lyrics) and Kurt Weill (music), The Threepenny Opera was inspired by John Gay’s 18th-century The Beggar’s Opera.
Brecht and Weill’s creation is a savage, biting commentary on capitalism and modern morality. Set in London, The Threepenny Opera is a bitter tale told of the outlaw known as Mack the Knife. He secretly marries the daughter of Soho’s underworld boss but is soon betrayed by his sinister in-laws and sent to prison. After being freed by the police chief’s daughter, he is again betrayed – this time by a prostitute – and sentenced to death. At the final hour he manages a reprieve, thus providing a menacing finale of ferocious irony. Weill’s acidic harmonies, and Brecht’s piercing texts, create a revolutionary musical that inspired such subsequent hits as Cabaret, Chicago, and Urinetown.
November 13-14, 8:00 pmNovember 15, 2:00 pmNovember 19-21, 8:00 pm
For tickets, call 713-348-PLAY