Alex Brightman and Drew Gasparini's musical It's Kind of a Funny Story will get a special presentation at Vassar's Powerhouse Theater this summer, performing July 18 and 19 at the Dutchess County college's Martel Theater. Sarna Lapine (Call Me Izzy) will direct.
Featuring a book by Brightman and a score by Gasparini, the work brings Ned Vizzini's novel, about a teenager who checks himself into an adult psychiatric facility after nearly taking his own life, to the stage. News of the project first emerged in 2016, and a concert presentation of the musical played 54 Below in 2017.
Starring in the upcoming performances will be Jackson Chase as Craig, along with Isabella Esler, Abe Goldfarb, Julia Murney, Tony winner James Monroe Iglehart, Jim Poulos, Mike Nappi, Jayae Riley Kr., and Happy McPartlin. Casting is by Jenny Ravitz.
Lisa Dozier Shacket is producing the project.
"Powerhouse has always been a sanctuary for brave, meaningful storytelling, and we couldn’t imagine a better place to debut this show," says Shacket in a statement. "It’s Kind of a Funny Story handles mental health with the humor, heart, and humanity it deserves. These are stories we need right now—stories that normalize struggle and celebrate resilience. Drew and Alex have created something truly special: a show that is as moving as it is funny, as raw as it is uplifting. I’m honored to help bring their vision to the stage.”
Tickets are available at Tix.com.