HANDS ON A HARDBODY
Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati
June 8-30
[Over-the-Rhine]
Based on the 1997 documentary film of the same name, Hands on a Hardbody garnered three Tony Award nominations and features a brilliant score from Amanda Green and Trey Anastasio (front man for the band Phish), along with a masterful story by Pulitzer Prize winner Doug Wright (I Am My Own Wife, Grey Gardens). For 10 hardluck Texans, a new lease on life is so close they can touch it. Under a scorching sun for days on end, armed with nothing but hope, humor, and ambition, they’ll fight to keep at least one hand on a brand-new truck in order to win it. Inspired by true events and infused with a “fresh roots-rock vibe,” this is the hilarious, hard-fought contest where only one winner can drive away with the American dream. Featuring a catchy combination of blues, rock and roll, and country songs, this musical is a peek into the lives of everyday, ordinary Americans struggling to survive against the backdrop of a broken and beaten working middle class. These Texans get pretty competitive when vying for a truck that’ll change their lives. They sometimes use adult language, including both sexist and racist remarks (including the word sp*c). Under the scorching sun, they also discuss suicide, PTSD, violence, and drug use, all while putting their hands on a truck and dreams on the line.
- In preview Sat, June 8 at 7pm
- In preview Tue, June 11 at 7pm
- Wed-Fri, June 12-14 at 7:30pm
- Sat, June 15 at 2pm & 7:30pm
- Sun, June 16 at 2pm
- Tue-Fri, June 18-21 at 7:30pm
- Sat, June 22 at 2pm & 7:30pm
- Sun, June 23 at 2pm
- Tue-Fri, June 25-28 at 7:30pm
- Sat, June 29 at 2pm & 7:30pm
- Sun, June 30 at 2pm & 7pm
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 