back to Hedwig page

A NOTE ON ATC’S UPDATED PRODUCTION OF HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH
by ATC Artistic Director, PJ Paparelli

While the musical of Hedwig was born out of the glam rock era in the 1990s when glam rock was retro, in ATC’s version we are updating her to the current retro rock era; the punk rock scene of the early 1980s.

Where is Hedwig now? Where are we as a nation? It’s hard to imagine a worse journey our country could have taken -- in every direction. The question emerges: Do we really know who we are as Americans? This country is about to begin its most in-depth examination of identity yet. The face of America has been evolving and will radically change in the upcoming years, which led ATC to our production of Hedwig. It’s a reflection of the times. The play takes place in today’s reality, not in 1997. John Cameron Mitchell has been very specific about saying the piece needs to reflect the time and place it is performed.

Chicago. 2009. This Hedwig’s gone through that glam rock phase. She is in tune with the times and embracing the punk rock scene of the early 80s. Everything’s simpler and more visceral. This production embraces the concert/rock venue atmosphere. This concert evolves into a unique theatrical experience, which surprises everyone, including Hedwig. The punk style of Siouxsie and the Banchees, Blondie, and the Sex Pistols all play into this version. The venue will reflect the punk scene, our economy, and the state of Hedwig’s career and life. Towards the end of the play, the piece evolves into hope as Hedwig discovers her true identity. It’s a statement of where our country is and hopes to be: rising out of these challenging times with a better understanding and embracing who we are.