In Transit

By Kristen Anderson-Lopez, James-Allen Ford, Russ Kaplan and Sara Wordsworth

Directed by Joe Calarco

Originally produced at Primary Stages, New York, NY.

September 21, 2010 through October 31, 2010

About the Premiere Production: In this fresh take on the modern musical, seven performers take on multiple roles and create every note with their own voices for a rich theatrical experience unlike anything you've ever seen (or heard) on stage before. Inspired by the rhythms and sounds of life on the subway, In Transit follows an aspiring actress, a fledgling financier, a street-savvy beatboxer, a cab driver, and others as they find their way in New York City. The result is a vivid tapestry of characters and music in the City that never stands still.

Artistic Statement: A cappella music is traditionally associated with styles such as doo-wop, barbershop, and choral or spiritual genres, but is rarely used in the musical theater form. In Transit makes use of more contemporary influences such as hip-hop, reggae and rap, providing the audience with a surprising new sound. The blend of creative music, smart lyrics, and contemporary characters, helps to make this piece very accessible to a more diverse audience than traditional theater typically attracts. With the ongoing challenge that theater faces to attract new audiences and maintain a place of relevance in the world, we feel that In Transit has the ability to excite a wide range of people in various communities across the country. The success of theatrical productions such as Rent, Hair, Avenue Q, and Spring Awakening (all of which began Off Broadway), in addition to television programs such as Glee, Sing Off, and American Idol clearly reflects that there is musical attraction to younger generations, provided that the material speaks to their experience and interests. - From Andrew Leynse, Artistic Director:

What this grant will allow us to do: Funding will provide two additional weeks of rehearsal time allowing us to conduct extended development in the pre-production period. In Transit is a complex a cappella musical. The nature of the work ads additional needs to the process and will take time to define the right harmonies and vocal mixes with the actual actors in the production. It is a challenging musical environment to establish in the typical four-week rehearsal period and this extra time will serve not only the music, but the overall development of the story as well. -Elliot Fox, Managing Director

Director: Joe Calarco

Set Design: Anna Louizos

Lighting Design: Jeff Croiter

Sound Design: Jon Weston

Costume Design: Jen Caprio

Additional Funders: Tom Viertel

News

In Transit

DC Theatre Scene, October 14, 2010

In Transit

Variety, October 6, 2010

In Transit