Worlds collide at musical

A maniacal murderer is not something you would usually associate with the world of musicals, but these two extremes collide when Jack the Ripper: The Musical takes over Koorliny Arts Centre from the auspicious date in July, Friday the 13th.

The East End murders are a notorious part of London’s history and are still intriguing visitors to the area and conspiracy theorists to this day.

Jack the Ripper: The Musical is a musical reconstruction of the events which took place between Friday August 31 and Friday November 9, 1888.

Director Cat Baxter said although the subject matter was a little macabre, audiences would still enjoy plenty of laughs as they were taken on a whirlwind adventure.

‘‘It’s satirical and it’s a black comedy,’’ she said.

‘‘There is an underlying threatening story, but around it are the stories of people’s lives and how they found humour in everything that they did.

‘‘The theatre is small and we’re not only acting and performing on the stage, we’re using the area where the audience is sitting and getting them very involved in what we do so they’re going to live the experience with us.

‘‘And we’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves.’’

Baxter said a talented cast, and a strong partnership with her collaborator Alan Blatchford, had helped her create a production she was proud of and was confident audiences would enjoy the show.

‘‘I think the audience may be very sceptical when they come, particularly as they’re asked to sign a contract saying they don’t tell anyone who did it.’’ she said.

‘‘I think from the get-go they’re going to enjoy the noise and excitement of the show.’’

Jack the Ripper: The Musical is performed at Koorliny Arts Centre on July 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21 at 8pm and July 14, 15 and 21 at 2pm.

Tickets cost $20 for adults, $18 concession and $16 children under 15.

To book, call the office on 9467 7118 or visit www.koorliny.com.au