UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State Centre Stage proudly presents the musical "Be More Chill" to kick off its 2016-17 season. With music and lyrics by Joe Iconis and book by Joe Tracz, "Be More Chill" was first produced at Two River Theatre in New Jersey, where it was given its world premiere. Penn State’s production is the first since that premiere — and will run Oct. 4-15 in the Playhouse Theatre on the University Park campus.
John Simpkins, head of musical theater at Penn State, directs. Music direction is by Dan Riddle, with choreography by J. Austin Eyer.
An average and un-special teenager, Jeremy Heere is almost invisible. That is, until he discovers a tiny supercomputer that gives him access to everything he wants: girls, parties, popularity. Truly the teenage dream — or so he thinks. Based on the novel by Ned Vizzini, this science fiction musical follows Jeremy and his search to find his own voice in the world. Praised as “a high-energy, imaginative, well-crafted world premiere musical,” "Be More Chill" was also lauded as “a vibrant, inventive musical that makes the most of every moment.”
The production features Joesph Allen as Jeremy, Jonathan Savage as Michael, Maria Wirries as Christine, Aidan Wharton as The “Squip,” Johnathan Teeling as Rich, Jessie Davidson as Chloe, Samantha Littleford as Brooke, Maggie Malaney as Jenna, Graham Hancock as Jake, and Jonathan Hashmonay as Jeremy’s dad.
Penn State’s production is designed by Michael Schweikardt (scenery), Zach Straeffer (lighting), Richard St. Clair (costumes), and Curtis Craig (sound). Mary Dennis is production stage manager.
Iconis will provide a special free post-show concert after the Oct. 13 performance. Join Iconis and his merry bunch of punks as they bring Joe Iconis & Family to Penn State to sing Iconis' original songs. The New York Times calls Joe Iconis & Family “the future of musical theater” — don’t miss this late-night concert following the evening performance.