SCOTTSDALE DESERT STAGES THEATRE PRESENTS “BE MORE CHILL”
DST Teen Production opens Friday, May 6
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Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre (DST) announces the opening of its 2022 production of “Be More Chill” on Friday, May 6, at Scottsdale Fashion Square.
The musical is based on Ned Vizzini’s YA novel about an average teenager who takes a pill in the hopes of becoming more cool - or "chill" - as a result. "Be More Chill" has had an internet teen cult following since 2015, streaming more than 300 million times. The musical by Joe Iconis (music and lyrics) and Joe Tracz (book) ran for six months off-Broadway in 2019. The musical has never been produced before in Arizona.
"We listen to our DST teen community, and this title was one of the shows they wanted to perform," said Walt Versen, DST Artistic Director. "Be More Chill is an exciting and contemporary musical with sci-fi elements so we invited Valley theatre favorites and DST alums Mark and Lynzee 4man to direct and choreograph our production." With recent news of the controversial closing of Be More Chill at a Turlock, CA, high school after only one performance, there is already a high level of interest in DST's production. "Mature themes are referenced in the show. We auditioned and cast teens ages 13-19 and believe this age group - the same as the high school student characters they portray - is well-equipped to understand and honestly deliver the storyline to audiences," said Versen. DST's production will feature live music, and the band will include teen musicians.
"Be More Chill” will run at Desert Stages Theatre from May 6 through May 15 with shows Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30pm and matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2:00pm. Appropriate for ages 13+
To purchase tickets, only $25 per person, visit DesertStages.org or call the DST Box Office at 480-483-1664. Masks and social-distancing are optional, but still encouraged, at Desert Stages Theatre. Audiences are required to wear masks during the first Sunday (matinee) and second Friday (evening) performances.
Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre is located next to Wonderspaces on the lower level of the Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall at 7014 East Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale, AZ, 85251.
About Desert Stages Theatre
Desert Stages Theatre is an award-winning, nonprofit performing arts theatre located in Arizona’s premiere shopping, entertainment, and dining destination, Scottsdale Fashion Square. Established in 1995, Desert Stages has grown to offer over 250 shows year round consisting of 10 adult productions and up to eight youth productions. Its mission is to not only provide quality entertainment for the community, but to also provide an educational experience for young people interested in the arts. Visit DesertStages.org for more information.
