"Unbound by convention and driven towards discovery," Boston Theatre Works has selected the musical “Pulp” as the first production of its eighth season. A sexy homage to the sultry world of 1950s lesbian pulp fiction, the production is directed by Jason Southerland. With cabaret style seating, "Pulp" runs September 29 through October 15 at the BCA Plaza Black Box Theatre, 539 Tremont Street in Boston. This production marks the play’s New England premiere as well as the company’s musical debut.

Written by Patricia Kane, “Pulp” was developed and received its world premiere at About Face Theatre in Chicago. That production received five Jefferson nominations, winning Best Original Music for composers Amy Warren and Andre Pluess and lyricist Patricia Kane. The Chicago Sun-Times dubbed the show “the cult hit of the season.”

Southerland commented, “Thanks to smaller regional and off-off Broadway companies, the American musical is experiencing a renaissance. Musicals like ‘Urinetown’ and ‘Bat Boy’ were developed at smaller companies like Boston Theatre Works. I’m proud to be a part of this trend, developing hip new musicals like ‘Pulp’ and helping shepherd them to New York.” “Pulp” is slated to open Off-Broadway in Spring of 2006.

Set in 1956, “Pulp” is the story of Terry Logan (Dayle Ballentine) a military woman who doesn’t like labels: “I’m a lesbian, plain and simple. I don’t make any bones about it.”

After a close call with the General’s daughter, Terry heads for Chicago where she discovers The Well, a bar for women who love women, and takes up with Bing (Whitney Cohen), a femme fatale who is quick to possess “the new butch in town.” But Terry soon yearns for Vivian (Maureen Keiller), the mysterious, glamorous and seemingly untouchable owner of The Well.

With a film noir touch, , “Pulp’s” tale is fueled by a jazzy score that speaks to the punchy style of the pulp fiction genre and the lure of lesbian bars, drag kings and the legacy of Barbara Stanwyck. The Boston cast also features Stephanie Carlson as Pepper and Linsday Flathers as Winny.

Boston Theatre Works will continue its 2005-2006 season with Shakespeare’s “Othello,” from February 16 through March 11 and the New England premiere of “The Sweetest Swing in Baseball,” running April 13 through May 6. In July, BTW will again present “Unbound,” its popular festival of new plays.

Tickets for “Pulp” are available by calling 617-933-8600 or by visiting www.bostontheatrescene.com. Tickets are also available in person at the BU Theatre Box Office, 264 Huntington Avenue, and the Calderwood Pavilion Box Office, 571 Tremont Street.

“Pulp” is recommended for audiences over the age of thirteen.

-- OnStage Boston

09/08/05