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Lunch at the Piccadilly
The residents of Rosehaven have a lot of life left, and they intend to use it. Why should the old folks in nursing homes rock their lives away when they could join forces with churches and start a "powerful, nation-sweeping movement" to reform organized religion? They call themselves the First Breakfast Club, because after 2,000 years of Last Suppers, "we need a first breakfast to follow it up." Their leader is the unflappable ex-Reverend L.Ray Flowers, and together they're changing the world, one wheelchair at a time.
Clyde Edgerton's adaptation of his best-selling novel retains the humanity and authenticity of the original, and adds some new twists. It has 24 songs by Mike Craver that incorporate almost every imaginable style, and may be the first score ever with songs about Medicare and Medicaid. "Lunch at the Piccadilly" is something that's hard to find - a new show that's truthful, topical, universal, and great fun.
A WINNING NEW MUSICAL OVERFLOWS WITH WONDERMENT
"An irrepressibly side-splitting and heart-stoppingly poignant musical.....a delightful show that's a must-see for everyone.....Take a load off your feet and settle back to let the good times roll. And will they ever! Director Steve Umberger has translated lyrics and music by Mike Craver and Clyde Edgerton into a funny, teary and totally unforgettable show..... Set to songs ranging from the hilarious 'How Does a Glass Eye Work?' to the mournful 'Bring Him Home,' this is a gentle story with an unflinching message about right and wrong that hits the mark."
LIVELY THEATER
"The themes about aging and family are universal.....In his first attempt at adapting his own work, Clyde Edgerton retains many of the book's hilarious moments. And there are the moving episodes.....Having Mike Craver on board as composer means a number of quirky and poignant songs.....The flamboyant and funny songs easily entertain, but it's the heartfelt songs that linger.....Director Steve Umberger gets strong, confident characterizations from the cast."
'PICCADILLY' VIBRANT WITH OLD AGE
"The premiere of Clyde Edgerton's 'Lunch at the Piccadilly' earned a standing ovation and cheers from the crowd that packed the theatre Saturday night....Unflinchingly human.....The play is all based around aging, and it's a musical to boot.....Just as you giggle over a clever line, Edgerton and Craver hit you in the gut with some of the most meaningful and well-written songs I've heard in a musical in a long time.....This is not a work that glosses over aging with niceness. It has lots of irreverence.....You definitely won't fall asleep in these hallways."
'PICCADILLY' SHINES LIGHT ON LIGHTER SIDE OF LIFE
"A warm and funny and breezy two acts that tug at the heart and the funny bone.....The music and lyrics by Edgerton and Craver are usually funny, always snappy......Versatile songs channel such diverse songsmiths as Johnny Cash and the Beastie Boys, with touches of Southern Gospel and traditional Broadway ballad.....'Lunch' is funny and charming and warm and inventive and deliriously entertaining."
Visit lunchatthepiccadilly.com for more information
