A brand new rock musical adapation of Dostoevsky’s CRIME & PUNISHMENT is confirmed to include music/songs by Toyah Willcox and Simon Darlow.
The production adapted and directed by Phil Willmott will run from 31 August until 25 September at the sunken 800-seater amphitheatre The Scoop in London.
Many of the songs from the album IN THE COURT OF THE CRIMSON QUEEN will feature in this steam punk version of the legendary Russian classic CRIME AND PUNISHMENT. Adapted and written by renowned director Phil Willmott, the outdoor production will also utilise some songs from Toyah’s classic song catalogue.
Published in 1866 Dostoyeksky’s Crime and Punishment is one of the most famous and influential novels in world literature. When an idealistic student kills a ruthless money lender, who terrorises the poor of St. Petersburg, the novel challenges us to ask if murder is ever justified. Rock music works as the perfect medium to express the energy, rebellion and passion of the story. Fittingly this new musical production, adapted and directed by Phil Willmott, will feature specially written songs and favourite tracks by British rock legend, Toyah Willcox and her song-writing partner Simon Darlow.
Toyah commented: “Who could resist this chance to help introduce theatre-goers, great literature and steampunk all in the one show, performed for free to such a huge and multi-cultural audience, in this iconic, beautiful venue?”
and continued…. “Capturing the spirit of Dostoyevsky’s alienated characters has been a wonderful challenge and I’m excited that this collaboration will engage tens of thousands of people with this extraordinary novel in so fresh and enticing a way and is totally fitting with my musical work.”
Phil Willmott says, It’s great to be back! Our surveys tell us that a significant percentage of our audience are new to theatre and to many of the masterpieces of world literature so it is with particular pleasure that we look forward to introducing them to Crime and Punishment. I’m particularly excited that we’re collaborating with Rock legend Toyah Willcox and Simon Darlow whose impactful, timeless roster of hits and new songs, so perfectly match the raw, urgent energy of Dostoyevsky’s characters and message.
For a decade and a half, Gods and Monsters have created award-winning theatre inspired by the diverse cultures of those around them. The theatre season is part of London Bridge City Summer Festival which runs 1st June – 31st October 2016.
Gods and Monsters Theatre present:
Crime & Punishment: A Rock Musical
Dostoyevsky and the music of Toyah Willcox and Simon Darlow
Adapted & Directed by Phill Willmott
The Scoop, London Bridge City, SE1 2DB
Wednesday 31 August – Sunday 25 September 2016
Wed-Sun at 20.00 | FREE ENTRY
Simon Darlow
Phil Willmott
Toyah Willcox