The Grinning Man

The Grinning Man is a musical based on the novel The Man Who Laughs written in 1869 by Victor Hugo. The script is by Carl Grose; music by Tim Phillips and Marc Teitler and the lyrics are by Carl Grose, Tom Morris, Tim Phillips and Marc Teitler.

The cast comprises 12 performers – the dramatis personae includes more than 12 roles and there are opportunities for ensemble and puppet work. This musical is certainly challenging for several reasons. The performers need to be technically adept, and you will require skilled singers and strong actors who can also work puppets.

There is a guide to doubling and puppeteering in the book explaining which characters could be played by the same actor. There is an ensemble/chorus with opportunities for multi-roling.

The plot is well-crafted and holds the audience's attention to the final dénouement, as the main character Grinpayne seeks the truth behind his gory grin. The script is well-written and comprises dialogue and song. The Grinning Man's humour is dark and modern, yet the style is a hybrid of Gothic, fantasy and Spanish Inquisition. There is plenty of action and some stage fighting with swords.

The sets are extraordinary, and their realisation would need some careful thought. The play is set in the ‘City of Lonnn'donnn’, but there is a palace, a fire, a ship wrecked at sea, torture and hanging scenes and a near wedding.

Sheet music exists for the songs, and you can access performances of songs on SoundCloud and YouTube. You will need a good musical director and musicians. A digital perusal score is available for rent which includes a copy of the piano or conductor score and can be browsed for up to 2 weeks.

www.prsformusic.com

To find out more or license the play contact info@concordtheatricals.co.uk