A CONCORD THEATRICALS TITLE
See What I Wanna See
Full-Length Musical, Drama
Michael John LaChiusa, Ryunosuke Akutagawa, Takashi Kojima
Words and Music by Michael John LaChiusa
Based on short stories by Ryunosuke Akutagawa
As adapted by Takashi Kojima
A musical about lust, greed, murder, faith and redemption, based on three short stories by the Japanese writer Ryunosuke Akutagawa.
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Subgenre
Adaptation (Literature), Period, Docudrama/History

Details
Summary
See What I Wanna See, a musical about lust, greed, murder, faith and redemption, was named by New York Magazine as one of the Best Musicals of 2005 and nominated for nine Drama Desk Awards, including Best Musical. It is based on three short stories by the Japanese writer Ryunosuke Akutagawa and unfolds like a classical Japanese screen painting. In Kesa and Morito, set in medieval Japan, two lovers sing of the ecstasy and torment of their illicit affair and their determination to end it that night. R Shomon, set in 1951, New York City, follows the investigation of a crime of passion and the witnesses' contradicting versions of the event. An innocent bystander, a cunning thief, a flirtatious wife, a psychic and even the ghost of the murdered man are all caught in a web of deceit. Gloryday, set in present-day New York City, introduces a priest during a crisis of faith after a terrible tragedy strikes the city. Disillusioned and angry, he plays a practical joke and posts an anonymous letter in Central Park, declaring that Christ will appear, rising from the pond. On the day of the miracle, a storm blows through the Park, and only the priest sees his lie become a truth.
History
Cast Attributes
Performing Groups
Media
“[Michael John LaChiusa] wrote just the sort of show I want to see: a chamber musical of constantly changing textures and intense colours about infidelity, faith and different versions of the truth.” — The Stage
“The score is exceptional… Here is a truly innovative show.” — Broadway World
Music
Music Samples
- Musical Style Contemporary Broadway
- Dance Requirements Minimal
- Vocal DemandsDifficult
- Orchestra Size Small/Combo
- Chorus Size No Chorus
Licensing & Materials
- Licensing fees and rental materials quoted upon application.