50 Shades of Funny!

50 Shades! The Musical opens at the Kirk Douglas Theatre (Photo: Clifford Roles)
  • By Jon Steely
  • Photo By CLIFFORD ROLES

Okay. I’ve never read Fifty Shades of Grey, but when I heard that a musical parody of the trilogy was coming to Los Angeles, I responded with an exuberant and immediate, “Where can I get tickets?!” If there is an opportunity to witness bondage and sadomasochism in the form of a hysterical musical, I want to be there to see it. And, from what I hear, 50 Shades! The Musical delivers!

Since Fifty Shades of Grey exploded onto the literary scene in 2011, E.L. James’ erotic novel broke book sales records around the world, quickly becoming one of the most popular and bestselling fictional books of all time. Whether you’ve read it or not, there is no denying that this sizzling romance novel is a major pop culture phenomenon. The feature film version – currently in production – is one of the most highly anticipated upcoming major Hollywood releases. When anything becomes this popular, it’s only natural that a staged musical parody materializes.

50 Shades! The Musical has already enjoyed successful runs in New York and Chicago, packing theaters and leaving howling audiences wanting more. There are hilarious, original tunes, a crackling live band and a lot of entertaining dance numbers. Reviews have been stellar and I can hardly wait to catch a performance. Who knows? It might even get me to read the book.

50 Shades! The Musical plays February 25 to March 16 at the Kirk Douglas Theatre, located at 9820 W. Washington Blvd in Culver City.