Avenue X (New Theater Wing)


Studio Theater


Book & Lyrics by John Jiler
Music & Lyrics by Ray Leslee
Directed by Mark Brokaw

Avenue X-- the first major a cappella musical-- is a powerful and timely event. Creators John Jiler and Ray Leslee employ doo-wop, be-bop, rock 'n' roll, and the beginnings of rap to explore the explosive relationship between the African American and Italian American communities of 1963 Brooklyn. Their spectacular 25-song score sung by eight brilliant voices is alternately rooted in rhythmic gospel and slave chants or swing, with the faint echo of Verdi.

Two boys, bound for escape from their black and white worlds, accidently meet in the Avenue X sewers, the only place safe from the racial chaos of the streets above. In song they find an uneasy alliance which segues into mutual respect and trust, but the spectre of racial violence intervenes when the two young men decide to enter their act in a talent contest at the Brooklyn Fox Theater.

Creative Team
Loy Arcenas
Scenic Designer
Ellen McCartney
Costume Designer
Donald Holder
Lighting Designer
Janet Kalas
Sound Designer
Lisa Buxbaum
Production Stage Manager
Ken Roberson
Choreographer
Chapman Roberts
Music Director/Arrangements
Rick Sordelet
Fight Director