Band Of The Week: Hedwig And The Angry Inch

Wig out! The critically acclaimed Hedwig And The Angry Inch makes it's way to Providence debuting at the Perishable Theater. From now until May 9 you must see this truly remarkable show. The story itself is about a transsexual punk rock girl from East Berlin touring the U.S. with her band as she tells her life story. Coinciding with her shows are those of arena-rock star Tommy Gnosis who loved Hedwig until he left and stole her songs. With a full live band on stage, Hedwig played by Alexander Platt delivers a rockin' performance.

Reminiscent of the glam-punk days from the 70's, the music of Hedwig is fantastic. Definitely a rock 'n roll show to love. Hedwig herself has an almost New York Dolls appeal. With glittery make-up (artist Michael Dates) inspired by Twisted Sister's Dee Snyder and platform silver boots, her stage charisma is straight from Lou Reed or David Bowie. Her band, The Angry Inch, plays all of the shows tunes to a T and interacts with the audience from time to time. When telling stories of her past, Hedwig will often wander into the crowd making obscene gestures and then scream at her back-up singer played by Liz Gotauco. This makes the audience step back and say, "Is this for real?" Almost, but certainly a wild and fun time. Not your average theater for sure.

Since scenes are mainly set in dive bars and clubs across the U.S., Perishable's production team (lead by Scenic Designer Sara Ossana) designed a bar to accompany the stage. Pictured below you can see why Narragansett beer is involved and you can also grab a 'Gansett while the performance is taking place right there. You actually get to feel like you're a part of the show. That really makes for a memorable theater experience. Taste and enjoy!

In fact, Hedwig and her band The Angry Inch drink 'Gansetts on-stage throughout the performance giving it a realistic feel. It's almost like you're at a punk show and not a musical. That's also thanks to the musical direction of David Tessier. Complete with classic guitars like a Gibson Flying V and Explorer, they constantly rock out with stage dives and are fully dressed in 70's/80's punk clothes. The drummer also changed the L and U on his Ludwig head to an H and E so it read HEDWIG. They even had the German accents down to make you think this was no act. But you really have to see this one for yourself to experience it. The hair, make-up, clothes and music of Hedwig are better live at Perishable than the cult-classic 2001 film. Too bad this wasn't a real touring band. For tickets, show times and more info please visit Perishable.org