The Brave Cast's Desperate Measures: A Raucous Musical Comedy

In a bold move, The Brave Cast has taken on one of William Shakespeare's lesser-known plays, Measure for Measure, and transformed it into a raucous musical comedy. Titled Desperate Measures, this Off-Broadway production is a wild ride that combines elements of classic Westerns with the Bard's complex themes.

The album opens with 'The Ballad of Johnny Blood,' a tongue-in-cheek homage to Western TV shows and films like Rawhide and The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly. This over-the-top number sets the tone for the rest of the show, which is full of humor, sex, and fun.

The music is varied and charming, with a dominant Western twang that adds to the show's comedic charm. Composer David Friedman has dubbed his score 'Jewish country,' but it's clear that he's had a blast creating this unique sound.

The cast, led by Nick Wyman as the sleazy governor, deliver their lines with great comedic chops and land every punch line in Librettist/lyricist Peter Kellogg's witty lyrics. The result is a show that's equal parts silly and sophisticated, making Desperate Measures a true original.

Despite its bawdy humor and outrageous accents, this production is ultimately about the power of love and redemption. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of Shakespeare's works and the creativity of The Brave Cast in bringing them to life.

Overall, Desperate Measures is a must-see for fans of musical comedy and anyone looking for a fresh take on a classic tale. With its clever lyrics, catchy tunes, and over-the-top performances, this show is sure to delight audiences and leave them wanting more.

The brave cast desperate measures