Shelley Cooper debuts solo musical at Black Box theater in Moline
Multitalented artists of today often classify themselves as “multi-hyphenates,” indicating that they possess various talents such as singing, dancing, and acting. Shelley Cooper, an associate professor of musical theatre at Augustana College, embodies this notion, excelling in her roles as a singer, director, actress, playwright, choreographer, producer, and teacher. In her latest endeavor, a one-woman show titled “Rag Doll on a Bomb Site,” Cooper showcases her additional talents as a composer and lyricist.
The show delves into the life and career of Austrian singer and actress Lotte Lenya (1898-1981), who was the wife and muse of composer Kurt Weill. Making its Quad Cities debut at Moline’s Black Box Theatre as part of the Solo Fringe Festival, the 50-minute production has received acclaim at various Fringe festivals across the nation. Having premiered in Thailand last winter and featured at the Hollywood Fringe Festival in Los Angeles this past June, “Rag Doll” has garnered numerous favorable reviews.
One such review by Soo Chyun captures the essence of Cooper’s performance, describing her voice as gripping, expressive, and arresting. Rather than presenting Lenya’s life chronologically, Cooper weaves a narrative that focuses on a pivotal moment before a performance, transporting the audience into an intimate experience. The choreography, coupled with Cooper’s vocals, creates a captivating and emotionally resonant atmosphere within the theater. Through expressive movement and poignant storytelling, Cooper brings Lenya’s story to life, shedding light on themes of trauma, survival, and artistic resilience.
In the show, set on the opening night of The Threepenny Opera in Berlin in 1928, Lenya is faced with adversity when Weill informs her that her name is absent from the program. Despite the setback, Lenya’s resilience shines through, as she confronts past traumas and adversities, including a tumultuous childhood marked by poverty, abuse, and hardships. Lenya’s unwavering spirit and determination are showcased as she navigates the challenges that come her way, drawing strength from her resilience and tenacity.
“Rag Doll on a Bomb Site” promises to deliver a compelling and immersive theatrical experience, transporting audiences into Lenya’s world of resilience, survival, and artistry. Cooper’s masterful storytelling, combined with evocative choreography and haunting vocals, creates a powerful narrative that resonates with the audience on a deep and emotional level. Don’t miss the QC premiere of this captivating show at the Black Box Theatre Solo Fringe Festival on Friday, August 29th at 7:30 p.m. Experience the magic of solo theatre at its most refined, as Cooper brings the inspiring story of Lotte Lenya to life on stage.