Written by and starring Nathan Cuckow and Chris Craddock (a.k.a. Feminem and T-Bag), BASH'd! "is loosely based on the real life spike in hate crimes in Alberta, Canada during the national debate on equal marriage for gays and lesbians. Since this debate, same sex marriage has been legalized in Canada, despite the fervent protests of the religious right. In America the struggle continues. BASH'd! explores the effect of homophobic violence and the emotions associated with being any marginalized population," according to press notes.

The production is told entirely through rap, spoken word and poetry, turning the often homophobic musical genre around. The original score is by Aaron Macri.

Ron Jenkins directs the production with lighting design by Roy Jackson.

BASH'd! will play the Village Theatre, located at 158 Bleecker Street, Manhattan. Performances run Aug. 10–24. For tickets and information call (212) 279-4888 or visit www.fringenyc.com.

For more information on BASH'd! visit www.homohiphop.blogspot.com.