The show that was a popular title at the New York International Fringe Festival in 2006 began previews in this newly-cast, revised production Aug. 23.
Walmartopia is an "irreverent agitprop satire of big business (and, in particular, that corporate giant associated with the eternal smiley face)," according to the producers.
The show is written by Catherine Capellaro (book) and Andrew Rohn (music and lyrics) and is directed by Daniel Goldstein, with choreography by Wendy Seyb and musical direction by August Eriksmoen.
Rohn's eclectic score incorporates pop, rhumba, marches, anthems and power ballads.
Cheryl Freeman (The Civil War) and Nikki M. James (All Shook Up) play the mother and daughter who are at the center of this lampoon of big business. According to production notes, "Walmartopia tells the hilarious and timely tale of Vicki Latrell, a single mom and Wal-Mart employee who speaks out against her company's working conditions and finds herself and her young daughter jettisoned to 2037, into a future where Wal-Mart dominates the entire world."
The producers offer this disclaimer: "Walmartopia is a satire that is not endorsed, sponsored or otherwise affiliated with, in any way, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. or any affiliates of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc."
The show had formative productions in Wisconsin.
The cast also features Sarah Bolt, Bradley Dean (Company), Stephen DeRosa (Into the Woods, Hairspray), John Jellison (All Shook Up), Brennen Leath, Andrew Polk, Pearl Sun (How the Grinch Stole Christmas!), Scotty Watson and Helene Yorke. Watson plays the late Wal-Mart founder, Sam Walton.
The Walmartopia creative team includes David Korins (sets), Miranda Hoffman (costumes) and Ben Stanton (lights), and is produced by WMtopia, LLC.
Walmartopia plays the following performance schedule: Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8 PM, Sundays at 7 PM, with matinees on Saturdays and Sundays at 3 PM. Tickets are priced at $65 & $45, and may be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or by calling (212) 307-4100.
For more information, visit www.walmartopia.com.
Minetta Lane Theatre is located at 18 Minetta Lane in Greenwich Village.
