Kelly D’Angelo, the writer, director, and producer of the The Count of Monte Cristo: The Muscial, answered some quick questions for @SeeItOrSkipItLA!
1. What about The Count of Monte Cristo made you think, “Yes! This needs to be a musical!”?
A: There are certain stories that are timeless. “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas is one of those. But what makes a story timeless? It’s ability to transcend by exposing faults of the human condition: something we can all relate to. This novel is grand, in both its emotional depth and its complex themes, and it deserves a just musical treatment. That’s what I’ve sought out to do.
2. How long has this production been in the works, from conception to Fringe?
A: Conception was nearly ten years ago, when I picked up this book through my weekly stroll at the local library. After reading it, I kicked down the door to my French class and abruptly announced, “I just read ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ and I am going to make it into a musical.” From there, I started working on the book, reading six different versions of the novel, including one in French. Flash forward many years later, I was lucky enough to stumble upon an amazing, absolutely incredible composer, Matt Dahan, about a year ago. From there, he took the words and made this massive endeavor come to life. Now, it’s finally here!
3. What about your show makes it perfect for the Fringe?
A: I could think of no better place to premiere this show. I have a firm and avid belief that a new indie musical Renaissance is sweeping the country and Los Angeles is the epicenter of this. With the amazing pool of talent out here, thanks to the entertainment industry, along with the incredibly supportive theatre community the Fringe assembles, the ingredients mix to make the perfect dish. To put it simply, I’m honored to have my show premiere at the Fringe, among the ranks of so many passionate theatre creators and supporters.
4. What do you hope the audience walks away with after your show?
A sense of wonder and excitement. You know, that light, buzzing energy you feel in your head after something enlightening or magical. If we achieve that, then we’ve done our job.
5. What show, other than yours, are you most excited to see at the Fringe?
So many! I’m already lined up to see about fifteen shows, and the list is only growing longer. If we’re talking musicals, I cannot wait to see Annabella, Timeheart, Assistants, Merely Players, Thenardiers Inn, Alien vs. Musical, and Songs of the Fall. As for plays, I’m excited for Unemployed Finally, The Three Musketeers: Clowns with Swords, Catherine, and Dead Dog’s Bone. The more, the merrier, I always say. Fringe on!
Intrigued? You can see The Count of Monte Cristo: The Musical on these days:
Friday, June 5, 2015 (PREVIEW) at 7:30pm
Tuesday, June 9, 2015 (PREVIEW) at 7:30pm
Saturday, June 13, 2015 (OPENING NIGHT) at 3:30pm
Thursday, June 18, 2015 at 7:30pm
Sunday, June 21st, 2015 at 3:30pm
Friday, June 26, 2015 at 7:30pm
Saturday, June 27, 2015 at 7:30pm
with a Running Time of 2 Hours
Okay fine, you can have a discount too!
“WaitAndHope” will get you $5 off our June 9th Preview
“TheRealTreasure” will get you $2 off any ticket
For ticketing click here.
*As a special thank-you to all Fringers following my coverage, please enjoy 15% off purchases at In Heels Productions throughout the month of June. Use code HFF15 at checkout!