One thing is for certain: The election season has become a horrible reality show. While the future of our nation is a bit unstable, New York playwright and producer Dan Kilian provides a welcome break from all of the insanity with his new musical Waste, Fraud, and Abuse. This production is unapologetic, entertaining, and funny as hell as it explores the issues plaguing our nation and the current campaign season. With catchy tunes and blunt statements, this musical aims at making a bold impression while leaving audiences with something to think about as they leave the theater.
StageBuddy had the exciting opportunity to speak with the talented writer, musician, and producer about the creative process, his background in music, and why this musical is worth voting for!
What was your intention in creating this musical and how do you hope it will be received?
Our intention was to move from song-of-the-week political send-ups to something more lasting, a musical. We also set ourselves the daunting task of addressing campaign finance reform in a tuneful funny way. We're delighted with our audience and hope they're entertained.
Can you describe the sound of the show and how your personal musical tastes fit in?
The show's an old school musical with eclectic styles and a little bit of rock thrown in. It'd be like Cole Porter if it wasn't Cole Mad Dog. Do whinos still drink Mad Dog?
With the run taking place right before the election, what type of statement is Waste, Fraud, and Abuse trying to make?
Hopefully the show will be a nice escape from the ugliness of this election, and we'll avoid a civil war!
What do you want audiences to take away from the experience?
I want the audience singing the songs (coming soon as an original cast recording!) and laughing at the jokes while remembering in the backs of their minds that we need to reform our Democracy.
Tell me about the most challenging/rewarding part of the creative process so far.
It's been a lot less trouble thanks to our production team, general manager Mindy Fintz and stage manager Ellen Curry, who have whipped so many logistics into shape. Our director, Bryna Kearney, organized and executed a swift dense rehearsal schedule with a huge cast, a marvel. Our biggest trouble was translating my rocker songs into a language show tune-oriented actors could understand. Our cast was VERY patient and now they sing the songs like champions! Watching Bryna and the actors get this thing up and running in such a compressed time has been inspirational.
Is there a certain type of work you’d like to be involved with in the future?
After this is over I've got a "double album" of love songs to finish called Your Love Is All I Can Stand. The next musical will be smaller with less props.
Waste, Fraud, and Abuse plays at the 13th Street Repertory Theater with final performances this Thu, Fri, and Saturday at 8 p.m. For more, visit: www.WasteFraudandAbuseTheMusical.com
