“Dude” is a tribute to the music of the 60s and is set in the summer of 1969. The story follows five youths as they embark on a journey to attend the Woodstock festival. The main character, Mick, is an aspiring musician who hopes to break into the music industry. Along with his friends, the group experience various challenges and revelations that test their friendship and resolve.
The music in “Dude” is a perfect blend of rock, folk, and blues, which are all genres that emerged in the 1960s. The songs in the musical are original compositions from the show’s creators, Peter and Mary Himmelman. Peter Himmelman is an accomplished musician and songwriter, having written songs for various artists such as Willie Nelson, Johnny Hallyday, and the Indigo Girls. His wife, Mary Himmelman, is an actress, director, and producer who has worked on various theater productions.
The show covers the social, political, and cultural issues of the 1960s, including the Vietnam War, civil rights movement, and the counterculture movement. As the characters navigate through their personal struggles, they also confront the issues confronting American society at the time.
One of the standout numbers in “Dude” is the song “Piece of my Heart,” a classic tune from the era. The musical’s rendition of the song is dynamic and poignant, making it a crowd favorite. The song perfectly captures the essence of the show, which is a love letter to the music of the 60s.
The cast of “Dude” is diverse, featuring actors from various ethnic backgrounds. The show’s creators intentionally cast actors of different races to ensure that the play was inclusive and appealed to audiences beyond the traditional theater-going demographic.
A notable member of the “Dude” cast is Tony Vincent, a seasoned actor who has appeared in various productions such as “Rent” and “Jesus Christ Superstar.” Vincent plays the character of Wesley, a musician who befriends Mick and helps him on his journey to stardom.
“Dude” premiered in San Diego in 2017 and received critical acclaim. The show’s premiere was so successful that a second run was staged in 2019 in the same venue. Both premieres were well received, with audiences raving about the incredible performances and captivating storyline.
The musical’s future is bright, as it has been picked up for a Broadway run in 2022. The show is expected to be a major hit and will undoubtedly attract theater-goers who love rock music and appreciate musicals that take them on a journey.
In conclusion, “Dude” is one of the latest additions to the world of musicals, and it is already causing a buzz. The show’s engaging storyline, catchy music, and talented cast make it a must-see for anyone interested in musical theater. Whether you’re a fan of rock music, theater, or just looking for a night of entertainment, “Dude” is sure to impress.