If you watched 2000’s American Psycho and thought “Hey! This would make one hell of a musical!” then a) you’re a little weird and b) we’ve got great news for you!
American Psycho — The Musical is opening at the Sydney Opera House’s Playhouse on June 3, 2021.
Based on the 1991 novel by Bret Easton Ellis and, of course, the film of the same name, American Psycho — The Musical is a wickedly comedic — and deeply disturbing — exploration of capitalism, vanity and wealth.
The production returns after a successful season at the Hayes Theatre Co. in 2019 that earned the musical an impressive nine Sydney Theatre Awards.
According to the official synopsis: Starring Ben Gerrard, this social satire tells the story of Patrick Bateman, a young and handsome member of Manhattan’s elite who indulges in sadistic sex and murder. With the book by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Riverdale), music and lyrics by Tony Award-winner Duncan Sheik (Spring Awakening) and featuring classic ‘80s hits from Phil Collins, Tears for Fears, New Order and Huey Lewis and the News, American Psycho — The Musical is both cult-classic and crime thriller.
“As the insatiable appetite for crime content remains a fixture of our cultural zeitgeist, American Psycho — The Musical is perfect for audiences looking to be thrilled,” said Ebony Bott, Sydney Opera House Head of Contemporary Performance. “Reimagined through the discerning lens of Alexander Berlage, this dark comedy speaks of power, privilege, narcissism and greed, and encourages us to reflect on whether this darkness exists both within ourselves and the world around us.”
The creative team behind the production is a veritable who’s who of Australian theatre and is directed by Alexander Berlage (Cry Baby) with musical direction from Andrew Worboys (RENT, Sweet Charity, Assassins) and choreography by Yvette Lee (Moonshadow).
The film version of American Psycho starred Oscar-winner Christian Bale as Bateman alongside Willem Dafoe, Jared Leto, Josh Lucas, Chloë Sevigny, Samantha Mathis, Justin Theroux and Reese Witherspoon.
American Psycho — The Musical runs from June 3rd to 27th 2021 with tickets available from $49.00.