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Black Francis Rockin’ The Opera
Black Francis has lined up a five-week residency at a Houston theatre this fall – or rather, that’s where you can find his namesake character in the new rock opera inspired by the musician’s 2007 album, “Bluefinger.”
Black Francis (aka Frank Black) based Bluefinger on the Dutch musician and artist Herman Brood. The album featured songs inspired by Brood, who committed suicide at the age of 54 in 2001, in addition to a cover of Brood’s “You Can’t Break a Heart and Have It.”
“Bluefinger: The Fall and Rise of Herman Brood” premiers at Houston’s Catastrophic Theatre Nov. 12 and runs through Dec. 18, Wednesdays through Saturdays.
Photo: Bobby Talamine / SkipTheDial.com
Aragon Ballroom, Chicago, Ill.
The rock opera features songs and concepts by both Francis and Brood. The play, which is being co-produced with the University of Houston School of Theatre & Dance, was adapted for the stage by Jason Nodler based on an idea by Pixies biographer Josh Frank.
Texas musician Matt Kelly and Michale Haaga star as Brood and Black Francis, respectively.
According to the Catastrophic Theatre, the rock opera was “inspired by Francis’ characteristically abstract lyrics. The play’s story is told in a non-linear fashion, emphasizing themes over biographical narrative including the desire to make a mark on the world before departing it and to live life fiercely and to its fullest.”
Tickets are on sale now. Opening night tickets will set you back $50 and include complimentary food and rink. All other seats are “pay-what-you-can,” with a suggested donation of $20.
For more information and to buy tickets, click here for the Catastrophic Theatre’s website.