This theater is on the cutting edge!
A Gowanus theater company will launch its new musical across the ocean to Scotland with “Swordraiser X: Curiosity Kilt the Cat,” a fund-raising party that combines a competition for a sword, a theatrical premiere, ska music, and Scottish outfits. The night will send the show “Don’t Feed the Cats” to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and also inspire audiences with a simple message of kindness to kitties, said the company’s producer.
“It’s a send-off and a celebration, but also a premiere for this show that we feel is really important and can say a lot,” said Karen Ng, of the Letter of Marque Theater Company.
The punk rock musical show was written by Phil Nerges, based on his memoir “Don’t Feed the Cats in Iraq.” Nerges violated that rule while working as a civilian contractor in the war-torn country, an act that brought a measure of humanity to a difficult time, said Ng.
“You’re in the middle of a war zone and you’re given all these rules. You’re not a fighter but you’re getting attacked. Part of what keeps you human and connected — having a heart — is doing something simple like that,” Ng said. “I feel like a lot of us feel for our pets, and there’s one thing — wherever you go, there’s still gentle human kindness.”
The 30-minute theatrical performance features music from Vic Ruggiero, a member of ska punk band the Slackers, who will play with other band members after the show.
The event will also feature a late-night dance party, a costume contest with a feline, Scottish, or military theme, and a carnival-style “Game of Cups” competition to win a trophy sword. The bladed weapon is a staple of Letter of Marque’s annual fund-raising events, said Ng, and it really encourages attendees to join in the fun.
“It’s a unique prize that we thought was really cool as an incentive for people to really get involved, rather than just watching,” Ng said. “To participate and mingle with people, and win a sword to go home with.”
“Swordraiser X” at Gemini and Scorpio Loft [261 Douglass St. between Third Avenue and Nevins Street in Gowanus, (718) 246–2211, www.lomth
