Lizzie Borden: A Dark Chapter in American History and a Great Musical
Lizzie Borden is a name that has become synonymous with one of the most infamous murder cases in American history. In 1892, Lizzie was accused of brutally murdering her father, Andrew Borden, and her stepmother, Abby, in Fall River, Massachusetts. Though she was ultimately acquitted, the legend of Lizzie Borden has continued to capture public fascination, leaving lingering questions about her innocence or guilt. Did she commit these gruesome acts, or was she wrongfully accused?
LIZZIE: The Musical at 6th Street Playhouse brings this mystery to life with a fresh, gothic rock twist, adding new layers to the well-known tale.
A Great Rock Band and Outstanding, Creative Visuals: Velvet Grass Cast Delivers
The Velvet Grass cast at 6th Street Playhouse opened their run of LIZZIE: The Musical on October 5th with a show that rocked the stage in every sense. With its hard-hitting music and bold performances, the production breathes new life into the story of Lizzie Borden, transforming the courtroom drama into a high-energy rock opera. The live band is phenomenal—delivering powerful riffs and deep rhythms that perfectly underscore the emotional intensity of the story.
From the very first note, the audience is pulled into a gothic world where dark history meets modern rock. The visuals are nothing short of outstanding and creative. Director Patrick Nims skillfully blends the eerie feel of a 19th-century parlor with the raw energy of a rock concert. Lighting, set design, and costume choices work together seamlessly to immerse the audience in a space that feels both haunted and rebellious.
Velvet Grass: A Wicked New Twist
In this version of the story, Lizzie discovers a more discreet and sinister weapon—poison. When she stumbles upon Emma’s “Book of Household Poisons,” she learns about the deadly properties of velvet grass and shattercane. This leads to a suspense-filled scene where Lizzie considers using prussic acid to eliminate her enemies, adding an extra layer of danger and intrigue to the plot. This brilliant twist injects a fresh sense of unpredictability into the well-known tale.
Stellar Cast Performances with Rock and Edge
The Velvet Grass cast—Malia, Nicole, Andee, and Megan—are nothing short of spectacular. Each brings intensity, grit, and emotion to their roles, with vocal performances that soar alongside the incredible rock score. Their chemistry on stage adds to the energy, creating a dynamic that is as explosive as it is haunting.
The music, composed by Steven Cheslik-DeMeyer, Tim Maner, and Alan Stevens Hewitt, gives the story a pulse-pounding rhythm, blending rock and gothic tones that complement Lizzie’s descent into madness. This is more than just a play—it’s a full-on rock concert with theatrical edge, and the band’s performance makes the show feel alive, raw, and unforgettable.
A Visually Stunning Production
Visually, this production is a feast for the eyes. With its combination of haunting Victorian aesthetics and rebellious rock visuals, the design transports the audience into a world where history, myth, and modern attitude collide. Whether it’s the eerie glow of candlelit rooms or the high-energy lighting of a rock stage, each scene is crafted with care, making every moment a visual delight.
Don’t Miss This Must-See Show
For lovers of true crime, gothic stories, and rock music, LIZZIE: The Musical is a show that hits all the right notes. With a great rock band, outstanding and creative visuals, and a killer cast, it’s an immersive experience that redefines the Lizzie Borden legend. Be sure to secure your tickets for this thrilling, high-energy production at 6th Street Playhouse!