Superhero musical aimed at kids and adults

HOLLYWOOD - The original musical, "Super Sidekick," debuts July 10 at the Underground Theater in Hollywood.Produced by Theatre Unleashed, the musical is described as a thematic super hero story for kids but with "plenty of subtle humor for adults." "Super Sidekick" follows the dynamic duo of Blackjack and Inky, the greatest super hero/sidekick combination in the Kingdom, as they track the evil Sorcerer Slurm to the Caves of Doom to rescue the princess. The modest and hard-working Inky gets his moment to shine when the proud and bumbling Blackjack also gets caught. He needs to summon his strength and courage to save them both before they fall prey to Slurm's Terrible Tickler. While the show itself is targeted to kids, its tongue-in-cheek approach makes it suitable for adults as well. "This play has something for everybody, sort of like the original Sesame Street," said playwright Gregory Crafts. "It's touching, ridiculous, really very funny and quite a spectacle." Crafts' wife, Jenn Scuderi, has more than a decade experience working in children's theater and said she was excited to return to the show and work with children again. "I think that young actors bring a different perspective to a cast, one of playfulness, openness and willingness to take the big risks," she said. "As adult actors, we are constantly trying to get ourselves back to that place where playing wasn't something we needed to think about. There is a playful feeling with this show and I'm confident that feeling will permeate not just the cast, but the audience as well." "Super Sidekick" drew critical acclaim at the Hollywood Fringe Festival, earning a Best in Fringe nomination for its efforts in heading up a new initiative by the festival to offer a more family-oriented slate of programming. "We're excited to be a part of this new initiative to bring theatre to all patrons of all ages," said Crafts. "We think it's important to introduce theatre to the next generation as early as possible so they realize just how wonderful, magical and important it really is." "Super Sidekick" opens July 10 and plays until July 31. Performances are Sundays at 1 and 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased by calling (818) 849-4039 or online at theatreunleashed.com.

********** Published: June 30, 2011 - Volume 11 - Issue 10