Aimee Mann's Theatrical Takeover: Pig Iron Theatre's Surreal Exploration of Heartbreak and Obsession

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Uncovering the Depths of Aimee Mann's Artistry

Dito van Reigersberg, the co-founder of Pig Iron Theatre and the creator of the drag cabaret persona Martha Graham Cracker, has become deeply enamored with the music of singer-songwriter Aimee Mann. This obsession has manifested in "Poor Judge," Pig Iron's latest production premiering at the Wilma Theater as part of the Philly Fringe Festival.

Aimee Mann: An Everyman's Muse

Reigersberg sees Aimee Mann as a relatable figure, someone who embodies the "sad, introverted, heartbroken person" that resides within all of us. To bring this concept to life, "Poor Judge" features seven distinct versions of Mann, each portrayed by an actor-musician on stage. Donning blonde wigs and chunky black glasses, this theatrical army of Manns explores the aftermath of a romantic breakup through a surreal and dreamlike lens.

Blending Cabaret and Experimental Theater

"Poor Judge" is a hybrid of cabaret and experimental theater, where the Aimee Mann clones perform original arrangements of 10 of her songs while acting out a series of vignettes. Music director Alex Bechtel has crafted these arrangements to have a "bespoke, homemade feel," with the performers' instruments and vocals driving the musical journey.

Navigating the Surreal Landscape of Heartbreak

The narrative within "Poor Judge" is fragmented and nonlinear, more impressionistic than linear. As the characters navigate the aftermath of a breakup, Aimee Mann's music and obsessions become a physical manifestation of their emotional turmoil. The show explores themes of human awkwardness, the surreal nature of fame, and the act of observing oneself and others.

A Sneaky Spy Caper Woven Throughout

Reigersberg has hinted at a "sneaky little spy caper" woven throughout the performance, with the Aimee Mann-inspired glasses doubling as covert masks. This element of observation and surveillance adds an intriguing layer to the already surreal and dreamlike experience.

Reigersberg's Personal Journey and the Return to the Stage

The creation of "Poor Judge" has been a personal journey for Reigersberg. Several years ago, he conceived the idea for the show, but shortly after, he was diagnosed with leukemia and had to step away from performing altogether. Earlier this year, he emerged from treatment and began performing cabarets as Martha Graham Cracker. "Poor Judge" marks Reigersberg's first Pig Iron production since his bout with cancer, making it a significant milestone in his artistic and personal life."Poor Judge" promises to be a captivating and immersive exploration of heartbreak, obsession, and the surreal nature of the human experience, all through the lens of Aimee Mann's evocative music. Audiences can witness this unique theatrical event at the Wilma Theater from September 11 to 22, as Pig Iron Theatre continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of performance art.