Sarasota Players stages rock opera to shake off summer doldrums

With its incendiary concept album “American Idiot," Green Day went straight to the explosive heart of the post-9/11 generation. Broadway director and playwright Michael Mayer ("Spring Awakening," "Hedwig and the Angry Inch") collaborated with Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong and distilled his Grammy Award-winning album into a rock opera.

Director/choreographer Brian Finnerty is bringing this multisensory experience to the stage in The Sarasota Players’ latest summer production. Expect a pulsating score, raw emotion and a snapshot of three lifelong friends traveling a long hard road into a not-so-brave new American century. According to Finnerty, you’d be an idiot not to miss it. He was happy to share what’s down the road.

Why’d you decide to produce this musical?

The Players wanted an edgy show that college students on summer break would enjoy. We considered many options, but “American Idiot” excited this age group the most — and it’d also appeal to adults. I also love Green Day, along with our director of education. (Many people auditioned simply because they love Green Day.) So, the decision was a combination of casting younger performers, attracting audiences who love this music and our own personal love for Green Day. Aside from all that, it’s a fantastic show!

How would you describe this musical to someone who has never heard of Green Day?

Pure chaos — and a great rock opera. Mayer adapted it from Green Day’s “American Idiot” concept album. They also drew on the journals of Billie Joe Armstrong — Green Day’s lead singer, guitarist, composer, lyricist, you name it. What they created is an hour and a half of non-stop song and dance, with a relatable and timely story.

What’s the basic story?

The musical follows three friends who move to the big city to improve their lives—only to make their lives worse. One stays home due to his pregnant girlfriend; one gets depressed and joins the military; and another becomes a drug addict. Despite its sad moments, it's fun, high-energy and honest, with smart orchestrations and beautiful harmonies.

What does the show look like?

In our production, it looks like a garbage-y grunge-a-palooza. The floor features the heart hand-grenade symbol from the album cover; the walls are covered with posters, eviction notices, newspaper articles and magazine clippings. We also have pieces like scaffolding, spinning couches and staircases. It's an immersive setting that draws you into this grungy world. David Walker’s costumes have the same punk feel.

Who’s your set designer?

Kelly Jar is doing scenic painting, and the cast and I are dressing the space. It's a collaborative effort.

What's your take as a director/choreographer?

It's a challenging show with nonstop, high-energy performances. I'm lucky to be working with such a great cast. Directing this production has given me a greater appreciation for this musical and Green Day. Creating the choreography has also been rewarding. It’s more grungy than other rock musicals I've done — and I love its blunt attitude. This show says, “Screw you” to traditional musicals and remains current and applicable. I'm thrilled for people to see it.

Who’s playing the lead roles?

Jason Ellis is Johnny, Judah Woomert is Will, Benjamin Eisenhour is Tunny, Vera Samuels is St. Jimmy, Caitlin Ellis is Whatshername, Amanda Heisey is the Extraordinary Girl and Lexi Lowther is Heather. The ensemble actors all get a chance to shine.

Image courtesy of Brian Finnerty

What's the cast's take on the show? 

They're very excited — sometimes too much so. They love discussing Green Day even during choreography. Everyone is positive and supportive — and that’s made rehearsals a blast.

Any creative challenges in rehearsals and tech?

Well, the script features dated, ignorant language. We decided to keep it because it reflects the story’s reality. This is the story of an American Idiot, right? He should sound ignorant! Tech has a heavy reliance on lighting and projections, a wireless rig for guitars and a live band. That’ll be our biggest challenge, but we’re up for it.

I figured there’d a live band. Will there also be a mosh pit?

Our live band is led by Michelle Kasanofsky, with Tommy Busch on guitar, Dorian Boyd on bass and Aaron Downard on percussion. (We're in talks for more string instruments.) There won't be a mosh pit. If audiences want that experience, they'll have to find it elsewhere.

Is "American Idiot" this rock opera’s signature song?

It's one of many great songs. "American Idiot" is a protest song that sets up the story well, featuring the entire cast. It does go straight to the heart of the story.

Do you think baby boomer theatergoers will relate to the music, story and characters?

I do. Every adult age group has seen their friends and loved ones in similar situations. Their story is relatable. It’s not a happy-happy story — but life is like that. The music might be a little loud for older audiences, but we have earplugs.

Whatever the age demographic, why should people see this show?

Because “American Idiot” is not your usual musical. It's darker, grittier, loud and unapologetic. The story is relatable, and told through Green Day’s music. Even non-Green Day fans can love the show. The dancing, lighting, vocals and cast's energy make it a really wild ride.

What’s your ideal audience takeaway?

I hope they’ll see that life isn't always cushy and comfortable. This show features sex, drugs and rock and roll, but it's more than that. It's a showcase of talent, stamina and camaraderie. I read an article about walkouts during the original Broadway show. One critic said, “Some people fear hyper youth voicing their opinions through punk rock.” I’d like to think local audiences are fearless. If you go with an open mind, you’ll enjoy the show.