Photo Credit: James May

Hedwig and the Angry Inch

November 7 – 17, 2013

Studio in Vertigo Theatre

https://tickets.vertigotheatre.com/TheatreManager/1/login&event=0

Listen to my full review on CBC’s Calgary Eyeopener at http://www.cbc.ca/eyeopener/columnists/theatre/2013/11/11/jessica-goldman-reviews-hedwig/

RATING

For traditional musical lovers – Hedwig is more of a confessional monologue/rock concert than a typical musical. Add to it the sexual nature of the content and the volume of the music and this may not be your cup of tea. MAYBE SEE IT

For alt musical lovers – What Hedwig gets so right is that unlike other rock musicals that just use existing music (Rock of Ages) or those that claim to be rock musicals but are still firmly in show tune land (Jesus Christ Superstar) , the music here is real deal. Loud and raw and obviously influenced by Bowie, Iggy Pop and Lou Reed, Hedwig explodes with energy both musically and in the dialogue. SEE IT

For occasional theatre goers – The drag queen comedy may amuse you and although it’s essentially a monologue, you will not tire of Hedwig’s character. But make no mistake, this show is dark and loud and at times uncomfortable in ways that you may not find entertaining. MAYBE SEE IT

For theatre junkies – I hear so many of you say how tired you are of traditional scripted dramas. Well this will certainly cleanse your palate! Yes the structure is clunky at times and Hedwig’s relationship with his bandmate Yitzhak is poorly crafted and the band often drowns out the lyrics, but all can be forgiven thanks to Geoffrey Ewert’s superlative performance. This is en energetic, well-directed, explosive production that is well worth your time. SEE IT