The Broadway Ferret

With the announcement that American Idiot is heading to the stage, I figured that it’s a good time as any to discuss other rock-centric shows coming or currently on and off-Broadway.

Hair, which opened on March 31st at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre, is about a group of hippies celebrating peace and love in the shadow of the Vietnam War.  It originally premiered at the Public Theatre in Central Park last summer and was so popular that it was extended three times.  It features popular songs such as “Aquarius” and “Let the Sun Shine In”.  It’s the kind of musical that would be perfect for baby boomers nostalgic for when they were young and their children and grandchildren.  I wouldn’t recommend bringing children and caution bringing teenagers since there is nudity and adult language.

Rock of Ages, which originated off-Broadway at New World Stages, is currently in previews and will open on April 7th at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre.  It tells the story of Drew, who longs to take the stage and his crush, Sherri, who’s from Kansas.  The story is told through popular 80s hits by bands such as Styx, Journey and REO Speedwagon.  From what I gather, it’s definitely a show for anyone who’s a fan of (and kind of still living in) the 80s.  There’s a seatside liquor service during the show, so I would think twice before bringing any teenagers.

The Toxic Avenger is based on the cult movie of the same name.  It tells the story of Melvin, who after being dropped in a vat of toxic waste becomes The Toxic Avenger with a mission to clean up New Jersey and win the heart of a blind librarian.  It features a score by David Bryant of Bon Jovi.  It premiered at the George Street Playhouse in New Jersey and will open at New World Stages April 6.  It’s only an hour and a half with no intermission.

Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark is about a teenager named Peter Parker who obtains all the abilities of a spider when he’s bitten by a genetically-engineered spider.  Not much is known about this show, other than that it will be directed by Julie Taymor (The Lion King) with music and lyrics written by Bono and the Edge of U2.  It will start performances at the Hilton Theatre on January 16th, 2010 and open February 18th.

Information from www.broadway.com