Show History

History

Inspiration

The Toxic Avenger musical is based on the 1984 film of the same name. Originally released as a low-budget, campy, superhero movie, the film developed a huge cult following from a long and successful midnight movie engagement at the famed Bleecker Street Cinemas in New York City. This success generated three movie sequels, with a fourth planned for future production, along with a comic book series, a cartoon series, a novel, a graphic novel and, ultimately, the hit musical.

Productions

The Toxic Avenger first premiered at George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick, New Jersey, on October 1, 2008, followed by an official opening on October 10, 2008. Based on the 1984 cult classic film of the same name and with a book by Joe DiPietro, music by David Bryan and lyrics by both, the musical played a scheduled four-week run, through November 2, 2008, under the direction of John Rando.

After receiving generally favorable press, the new musical then made a leap to New York, where it opened Off-Broadway at New World Stages on April 6, 2009. Again under the direction of Broadway veteran, Rando, the cast included Sara Chase, Nick Cordero, Demond Green, Matthew Saldivar and Nancy Opel. After 21 previews and 309 performances The Toxic Avenger closed on January 2, 2010.

Following its Off-Broadway run, The Toxic Avenger has gone on to be produced in Canada and South Korea, as well as expansively across the U.S. at such theatres as The Alley Theatre in Houston, Texas, and the Manoa Valley Theater in Oahu, Hawaii.

Cultural Influence

  • The Toxic Avenger Musical Original Cast Album was released on May 5, 2009, by Time Life Entertainment.

Trivia

  • The Toxic Avenger was also nominated for a Drama Desk Award for "Outstanding Book of a Musical," as well as a Lucille Lortel Award for "Outstanding Musical."
  • This particular adaptation of The Toxic Avenger, from a film into a musical, is neither the first, nor the second, but the third such endeavor.
  • Following original cast member, Sara Chase's, departure, "American Idol" Season 3 Runner-Up, Diana Degarmo, stepped into the role of sexy librarian, Sarah, for the remainder of the show's Off-Broadway run.