On Nov. 1, a group of departed rock stars will be resurrected at the Artful Dodger for a one night performance of Rock Is Dead.
This musical showcase will feature songs from The Ramones, The Mamas & the Papas, John Lennon, George Harrison, Dusty Springfield, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix and Kurt Cobain, to name a few. There may even be a surprise appearance by a superstar who has recently passed on.
Director Ben Redant says the idea for the show came from a YouTube video. “I was looking for interesting cover versions of songs and stumbled upon this video that looked like it had been filmed in Poland somewhere.
“They were doing a version of Janis Joplin’s Summertime and I just really liked the version they were doing,” he said. “The idea kind of grew out of that and I said, Well if they’re doing this over in Poland and it turned out well, it’s certainly something we could try and do here.”
The rock’n’roll cabaret will feature an all-star lineup of musicians from some of Regina’s local rock bands, including bassist Danny Jones, drummer Bill Grant and guitarist Andrew Darrell, who will accompany the performers as they channel rock icons who have kicked the bucket.
Carlie Judge, who is playing Michelle Phillips, the last remaining member of The Mamas & the Papas and one of the only living rock stars portrayed in the show, says the audience can expect a classic rock experience: “[The show is] the origins of rock and roll played really true to their original sound and original passion from the artist that made them.”
Judge says the show has given her a unique opportunity to perform songs she often doesn’t get a chance to sing. “This is one of those times where you just get to perform some of your favourite songs with a bunch of other talented people and talented musicians.”
Proceeds from this performance will benefit the Regina Food Bank. Tickets will be available at the door for $15 each or $10 with the donation of a non-perishable food item.
Redant says the show is well worth it. “You’ll get a lot of entertainment for $10 and a can of ravioli.”
