“The Monkey King,” written by Jonathan & Kimbirdlee Fadner, is a theatrical retelling of an ancient Chinese legend infused with a clever storyline and heart-pumping music. The Monkey King legend, from the epic Ming Dynasty novel "Journey to the West," has entertained for centuries with a cast of mythical creatures that can transform and transcend earthly realms and triumph amidst epic battles and quests. But can you imagine what happens when the King is born and he is… a woman!? The Fadners light up this tale with a shocking modern twist that will inspire you, your children, your neighbors and friends to take a fresh look at the world and be inspired toward positive change.

Actors will take on the exciting job of playing multiple roles throughout the musical, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns. At this early stage of development, the production will be treated like a work in progress, using minimal set and costume design, and letting the music and dialogue tell the story.

Returning to the CMM creative team as director is Steven Eng (co-founder NAAP, Lortell Award Nominee, Pacific Overtures). Also joining the creative team are Francine Espiritu, choreographer (A Chorus Line nat. tour, NAAP) and Andrew Trent, lighting designer.

LOCATION:

​The Howe Theatre

548 Main St, NY, NY 10044

212-371-4449

DATES:

Friday, Aug 3rd 8pm

Saturday, Aug 4th 2pm

Saturday, Aug 4th 8pm

Sunday, Aug 5th 8pm

Featured Actors: Ben Bartels, Russ Cusick (AEA), Kimbirdlee Fadner, Michael Green, Brandon Hynum (AEA), Rebecca Lee Lerman (AEA), Joan Marie, Chrissy Pardo, Monica Villa (AEA), Tomo Watanabe, Andy Zhang

Common Man Musicals is a non-profit theatre company that produces new musical theatre by and for all common men, women and children. Founded by Jonathan and Kimbirdlee Fadner in June, 2016, this is their fifth production and their second full length musical. They share their theatre home with MST&DA in the the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center.

“The Monkey King” is sponsored in part by Main Street Theatre & Dance Alliance through the use of their theatre, and the Queens Council on the Arts through their 2018 New Works Grant. Main Street Theatre and Dance Alliance strives to nourish creativity by providing high quality theatrical and dance training as well as performing opportunities to everyone in our diverse community. We believe that every person, child or adult, should have the opportunity to participate in the arts, regardless of cultural, socioeconomic, ethnic background or age.

FAQs

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

This is a family show. Age recommendation 3+

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

Roosevelt Island can be reached by F train, the Tram, Public Bus or by Car. There is metered parking and a parking garage. Street Parking after 7pm and all day Sunday is free. There is a free RED BUS that takes you to and from the subway or tram.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

commonmanmusicals@gmail.com