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A jubilant cast raises their hands on stage at Boho Theatre

The Cast and Crew Behind Boho Theatre’s ‘Fugitive Songs’

Corlew Karla

Boho Theatres’ Stunning Kick-Off with Fugitive Songs

Initiating their 12th season with a striking start, the Boho Theatre presented Fugitive Songs, a riveting musical journey penned by the renowned lyricist Nathan Lysen and music composer Chris Miller. The narrative unfolded under the skillful direction of Zachary L. Gray, accompanied by the remarkable command of music by Jeffrey Poindexter. The play debuted during the illustrious Chicago Theatre Week, leveraging impactful folk-rock melodies as a medium to portray the universal drive that fuels us all to run amidst challenging periods.

Fugitive Songs was performed from February 11 to March 13, 2016 at the Heartland Studio, located at 7016 N Glenwood Ave in Chicago. 

Fugitive Songs: A Deeper Understanding

At certain junctures in life, the monotony of the daily grind can become overwhelming, prompting a deep-seated yearning for liberation and the idea of fleeing from it all. “Fugitive Songs” presents a creative exploration through a series of songs, delving into the lives of individuals who have surrendered to this impulse, embarking on journeys with their emotional burdens in tow. The narrative unfolds through a diverse cast, including a disenchanted employee of a fast-food chain, a heartbroken former cheerleader, enthusiasts of Patty Hearst’s saga, an unwilling participant in a petty crime, and others, each seeking their own form of escape or redemption. The acclaimed duo, Miller and Tysen, masterfully weave elements of traditional folk, modern pop, and gospel music to craft a poignant exploration of the search for meaning and freedom within the American landscape.

The Production Team

Actors perform amidst a set of vintage suitcases at Boho Theatre

Artistic Director Peter Marston Sullivan articulates, “The process of fleeing unveils our previously unknown facets. More often than not, we are not running from a person or a predicament, but from our own selves and the tough decisions that we must make. True freedom is found when we grasp the reason for our flight and cease to run.” Following their recent successes with MYTHS & HMYNS and ORDINARY DAYS, Boho brings Fugitive Songs to life in the cozy confines of the Heartland Studio. The execution applauds a harmonious blend of seasoned Boho talent and emerging artists, both in the creative team and the ensemble of accomplished musician performers.

  • Produced by Meg Love;
  • Assistant Directed by Stephen Schellhardt;
  • Scenic Design by Tony Churchill;
  • Lighting Design by John Jacobsen;
  • Costume Design by Emma Cullimore;
  • Stage Managed by Lindsay Brown.

The Artistic Insights and Success of the Play

The play, with its unique approach of using music to tell the story of characters on the run, has managed to captivate the audience and critics alike. The powerful lyrics interwoven with gripping music, create a mesmerizing atmosphere that brings to life the dilemma and emotions of the characters.

Fugitive Songs, with its engaging narrative and brilliant production, has managed to leave an indelible imprint on the theater world, sparking numerous conversations about the music and the underlying theme it represents.

Conclusion

“Fugitive Songs” is a captivating exploration of the human instinct to escape during difficult times. The compound of riveting narrative, thought-provoking music, and superior production quality, makes it a remarkable music theater experience. It is a testament to the creative prowess of the Boho Theatre, which continues to captivate its audience with every new performance. The play will continue to stir hearts and encourage conversations, maintaining its status as a timeless piece in the world of theatre.