From October 10^th –19^th, American Psycho: The Musical takes over WSCU’s MainStage Theatre in the Visual and Performing Arts Center on the Westside Campus. The show, presented by WestRep Stage at WSCU, is directed by Tim Howard, while Justin P. Cowan serves as Musical Director. 

The production, which was written by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, was adapted from the widely controversial novel by Bret Easton Ellis, which was also famously turned into a film starring Christian Bale in 2000. The musical tackles a litany of themes regarding corporate culture, relying on its satirical use of graphic violence, as well as shocking imagery and language. 

“This show is a satire of the ‘yuppie’ culture of corporate America,” said Zola Kneeland, a senior musical theater major who plays the role of Evelyn Williams. “It uses dark comedy and time-period appropriate pop culture references to share an entertaining story that may be shockingly relatable to current audiences.” 

While this musical, starring senior Javen Levesque as Patrick Bateman, takes place in the 1980s and serves as a critique of some of the business culture of that time, the show relies on the controversies surrounding its violent approach to hit home messages regarding greed, consumerism and identity that are still relevant for today’s audiences. 

“It uses dark humor and stereotypes to establish a satire of New York in the 80’s,” said Alex Lee, a junior musical theater major who plays the roles of Detective Kimball and Al. “It is a very visually aggressive piece that will leave you engaged the entire time.” 

Taking on a production that contains graphic content to this multitude comes with several challenges, especially at the collegiate level. While the young actors in WCSU’s musical theater program recognize these obstacles, they are eager to take these challenges head on. 

“The most challenging part of this show has been finding the style in which it plays around in,” continued Lee. “It transcends its controversies and themes like toxic masculinity by presenting itself as a satire and turning those controversies into humor while still bringing attention to the real issue.”

The process of bringing this production to life goes beyond the show’s controversial reputation. Each student has put effort into their character work to transform into their roles and bring the message of the entire show to light. 

“Finding the balance between playing a character and being a caricature in such a stylized show has been a welcome challenge,” added Kneeland. “The controversial nature of this show is part of what makes it such an exhilarating piece to take on. The score and lyrics uplift the perceived darkness of the show and provide light, levity and laughter.” 

As the production prepares to begin its series of shows, the cast reminds audiences not to quickly dismiss the graphic and twisted narrative it displays. Kneeland herself urges that “the characters and circumstances of this show are not to be taken seriously as, ‘none of this exists.’” 

The production runs from October 10^th – 12^th the first weekend, and from October 16^th – 19^th the second. A community conversation with the audience and cast will be held immediately after the matinee performance on Saturday, October 11^th. 
For more information on the performances and where to acquire tickets, please visit https://westrepstage.org/event/american-psycho-the-musical/