For 2018, 11th Hour Theatre Company continues two series of one-off productions and presents a full main stage production of a world premiere musical. Its Next Step Concert Series presents new and seldom seen musicals, stripped down to their essence of good storytelling and music. Its Spotlight Series puts Philadelphia’s favorite musical theater performers front and center with one-night-only concerts in an intimate setting. Main stage productions, like June’s run of Big Red Sun, are full productions of musical theater. 11thhourtheatrecompany.org
The Spotlight Series: Jawbone Junction Re-United!
directed by Steve Pacek
February 11, 2018
Jawbone Junction, featuring Jake Blouch, Damon Bonetti, Tabitha Allen, Charlie Delmarcelle and Steve Gundelunas, first made a splash at the Philadelphia Fringe Festival in 2012. Now they are getting the band back together for what is sure to be a wild and hilarious night! Rock legends of the Arkansas Delta for the past few decades, Jawbone Junction has been described by musicologists as “Quintessentially American…like hamburgers with donuts for buns.” You won’t want to miss the sizzling guitar riffs, sailing high notes, and general lack of propriety Jawbone Junction has to offer. Playing Upstairs at World Cafe Live.
Next Step Concert Series: Jane Eyre
music and lyrics by Paul Gordon; book and additional lyrics by John Caird
directed by Kate Galvin
March 9-11, 2018
With a haunting, Tony-nominated score, this thrilling musical adaptation of Charlotte Bronte’s classic novel brings this iconic heroine’s story vividly to life. Orphaned in childhood, Jane Eyre struggles to find her place in the world as a fiercely independent woman trapped by the strictures of class. Jane’s indomitable spirit will touch audience members who know what it means to risk everything for love and for liberty. Playing at the Drake Theater.
The Spotlight Series: Backwards And In Heels!
directed by Megan Nicole O’Brien
April 22, 2018
“Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, but she did it backwards…and in high heels!” – We’re turning the spotlight on two of 11th Hour’s most beloved female powerhouses, Alex Keiper and Cara Noel Antosca, to tell the extraordinary story of women throughout musical theatre history. Featuring the unique perspectives and “blow-you-away” vocals that Alex and Cara bring to the stage, this cabaret is sure to be both an eye-opening and jaw-dropping experience! Co-conceived with 11th Hour co-founder and resident director, Megan Nicole O’Brien. Playing Upstairs at World Cafe Live.
Big Red Sun by John Jiler & Georgia Stitt
directed by Megan Nicole O’Brien; musical direction by Dan Kazemi
May 31st – June 17th, 2018
This new musical centers on a young musician named Harry Daimler and his search for a father he never knew. As he begins to uncover his father’s story, it leads him on an emotional journey of self-discovery. With a beautiful score which weaves from Klezmer, through 1940’s swing, to 1960’s jazz and then on to rock and roll, Big Red Sun illustrates that in order to know who you truly are, you must first understand where you came from. World premiere main stage production playing at Christ Church Neighborhood House.