The F*ck7thGrade musical, a queer musical memoir set in celluloid, is set to be released as an original cast recording later this year. This Off-Broadway hit, which was nominated for an Outstanding Musical award at the 2023 Drama Desk Awards, will finally see the light of day on vinyl. The album’s release, set to coincide with both Pride Month and the 30th Anniversary of Sobule’s landmark self-titled album, will feature a collection of songs that showcase Sobule’s unique voice and perspective. This self-titled album, released in 1995, was a groundbreaking work that featured two of Sobule’s most iconic songs: “I Kissed A Girl” and “Supermodel”. The latter, which was featured in the iconic film Clueless, became an anthem for a generation of young women.
- The F*ck7thGrade musical was conceived and written by Jill Sobule, with Liza Birkenmeier penning the book, and Lisa Peterson directing the production.
- The show also featured music direction by Julie Wolf, scenic design by Rachel Hauck, lighting design by Oona Curley, sound design by Elisabeth Weidner, and costume design by David F. Zambrana.
- Notable cast members included Sobule, Wolf, Kristen Ellis-Henderson, and Nini Camps.
The F*ck7thGrade musical is a queer musical memoir that delves into the complexities of growing up, identity, and self-discovery. The show’s title, F*ck7thGrade, reflects the pain and struggle of navigating the tumultuous world of adolescence. The production features a diverse range of characters, each with their own unique story to tell.
| Key Cast Members: | Jill Sobule, Julie Wolf, Kristen Ellis-Henderson, Nini Camps |
The musical was developed and workshopped at several festivals, including the 2018 Momentum Festival in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and the 2009 Colorado New Play Festival. It also played a limited run on the wild project Off-Broadway in several cities.
“Jill Sobule’s F*ck7thGrade is a queer musical memoir that explores the complexities of growing up, identity, and self-discovery. It’s a story about finding your voice, embracing your true self, and fighting for your rights. This musical is a powerful reminder that we are all still fighting for our place in this world, and that we must continue to stand up for ourselves and those we love.”
— Lisa Peterson, Director
The original cast recording is set to be released on June 6, the same day as Pride Month and the 30th Anniversary of Sobule’s landmark album. This album will feature a collection of songs that showcase Sobule’s unique voice and perspective, and will be accompanied by a re-release of her self-titled album, which will also be released alongside the cast recording.
Throughout the musical, Sobule weaves a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. She draws on her own experiences as a queer woman growing up in the 1980s and 1990s, as well as her observations of the world around her. The result is a musical that is both a powerful exploration of identity and a celebration of the complexities of the human experience.
- Key Themes:
- Identity, Self-Discovery, Coming Out, Queer Experience
The F*ck7thGrade musical is a testament to the power of queer musical theater. It is a show that will resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, and will inspire a new generation of young people to find their voice and stand up for themselves. As Sobule herself says, “Queer musicals have the power to challenge our assumptions and push us out of our comfort zones. They have the power to make us laugh, cry, and scream – and to inspire us to be our best selves.”
The release of the original cast recording and re-release of Sobule’s self-titled album will be a momentous occasion for fans of the musical and the artist. It will be a chance for them to experience the magic of the show on a deeper level, and to be a part of the queer musical community that has been growing and evolving over the past few decades.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that the F*ck7thGrade musical is just the beginning. It’s a show that will inspire a new generation of queer musicals, and will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of queer theater.
Key Dates:
- June 6, 2024: Original Cast Recording Release Date
- June 6, 2024: Re-release of Sobule’s Self-titled Album
Key Performers:
- Jill Sobule
- Julie Wolf
- Kristen Ellis-Henderson
- Nini Camps
Key Crew Members:
- Director: Lisa Peterson
- Music Direction: Julie Wolf
- Scenic Design: Rachel Hauck
- Lighting Design: Oona Curley
- Sound Design: Elisabeth Weidner
- Costume Design: David F.
