The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical
World-Premiere Musical
AUG 29 - OCT 8 Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre
Music and lyrics by Joe Iconis
Book by Joe Iconis and Gregory S. Moss
Choreographed by Jon Rua
Directed by Christopher Ashley
Anarchy. Ambition. Peacocks.
Who was Hunter S. Thompson? He changed journalism. He defined counterculture. Equal parts philosopher, clown and genius, he was armed and dangerous with a typewriter as his preferred weapon.
Careening from the 1940s to his death in 2005, this gonzo musical blasts into the life of one of America’s most influential and destructive icons. In relentless pursuit of the meaning of the American Dream during an era of political and social upheaval, Hunter S. Thompson cultivated a new form of journalism that ― for better or worse ― injected his subjective view into the heart of the story. Now, in another, even more severe moment of fake news, propaganda and polarization, Hunter’s story helps explore how we got here, and how to keep fighting.
Set to Joe Iconis’ anarchic and tuneful score, this musical is a rock ‘n’ roll thrill-ride into the life of an artist seeking greatness and coming to terms with his own legacy. It’s a heartfelt trumpet call to the moral idealists, the outraged, the outlaws and the outsiders.
Discover More
» Dive into Hunter S. Thompson’s work: discover or re-visit Hunter S. Thompson’s work with our reading and watching recommendations
» Read the program online
» KPBS: La Jolla Playhouse goes gonzo for world-premiere musical
» The San Diego Union-Tribune: Gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson the focus of new musical at La Jolla Playhouse
» LA Times: Inside the unsavory, unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson musical with Broadway in its sights
» Listen to Joe Iconis interviewed on Jazz 88 “Inside Art”
Ticket Information
Single tickets and subscriptions are now on sale.
First Look (previews): August 29 – September 3*
Weeks 2 – 5: September 10 – October 8
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*‘First Look’ performances are the first week of the run of each show prior to opening night (with some exceptions). First Look tickets are lower price and offer the opportunity to experience the show while the creative team are still polishing and making changes. This is a vital element of a show’s evolution, allowing the creative team to step back and see the show through the eyes and experience of the audience. Playhouse staff speak to the audience briefly before the show starts, and the creative team may be seated near you taking notes.
Ticket discounts
The Playhouse offers a range of ways to save on tickets, including Military, Student and Rush discounts, and $25 tickets in Area 3. Discounts are subject to availability and conditions may apply. Read more here or call our Box Office at (858) 550-1010 for more info.
Audience Engagement Events
Enhance your Playhouse experience by attending these free events. Simply book your performance for one of the following dates.
Talkback Tuesday
Participate in a lively discussion with performers and Playhouse staff members immediately following the performance.
Tuesday, September 5 and 12, after the 7:30pm show
Discovery Sunday
Hear from guest speakers in a moderated discussion exploring the themes of the show.
Sunday, September 24, after the 2pm show
Access Performances
ACCESS Performance (ASL interpretation): Saturday, September 16 at 2pm
ACCESS Performance (Audio Description): Saturday, September 16 at 2pm
Access performances offer American Sign Language interpretation for patrons who are d/Deaf or hard-of-hearing and Audio Description for patrons who are blind or have low vision. The Playhouse caters for a wide range of access and special requirements. Please call (858) 550-1010 or email [email protected] and we will work with you to address your access needs. Find more info about access here.
Useful Information
Parking
Parking is FREE for La Jolla Playhouse patrons in the South Parking Structure (formerly known as Osler Parking) when a valid parking pass is displayed. Take advantage of the free shuttle to the theatre. Find all parking information here.
Duration
Approx 2 hours and 40 minutes including 15 minute intermission
Content Advisory
Hunter S. Thompson lived life on the edge and was candid about his hobbies and vices – both legal and illegal. This musical reflects his life with humor, sensitivity and a heavy pour of his chaotic spirit. This production contains multiple gunshot sound effects, loud noises, prop guns, staged violence, water-based theatrical haze and smoke effects, fake cigarettes, strobe lighting, simulated drug use and themes of suicide. We understand sensitivities vary from person to person. If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects, please get in touch with our Patron Services team at [email protected] or (858) 550-1010 and we’ll be happy to give you more info.
Covid-19 Policy (Updated October 31, 2022)
La Jolla Playhouse no longer requires patrons to wear masks indoors while attending our theatres. However, we recommend indoor masking while at La Jolla Playhouse. For up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 safety procedures, please visit our Covid Safety Page.
Onsite Dining
La Jolla Playhouse’s on-site restaurant, James’ Place, is open for dinner service at 5pm nightly (Tuesday – Sunday). Please note, James’ Place is not open prior to matinee performances. James’ Place offers full bar service and a selection of specialty sushi, Asian fusion, steak & coastal cuisine items. Reservations can be made by phone as well as OpenTable. Indoor and outdoor seating options are available.
Concessions
Concessions opens 60 minutes before showtime. Come early to relax outside and enjoy a selection of beer, wine, cocktails, sodas and individually wrapped snacks. All food must be consumed before entering the theatre while concession drinks with lids will be allowed in the theatre.
La Jolla Playhouse is the only authorized ticket seller for this production.
Production Sponsors
Ted and Paula Adams
Weston Anson
Sheri L. Jamieson
Recipient of an Edgerton Foundation New Play Award
Cast & Creators
- Creators
- Cast
- Design
- Wilson ChinScenic Design
- Toni-Leslie JamesCostume Design
- Amanda ZieveLighting Design
- Justin StasiwSound Design
- Alberto "Albee" AlvaradoWig and Hair Design
- Animal Cracker ConspiracyPuppet Design
- Charlie RosenOrchestrations
- Rick EdingerVocal Arrangements
- Ian EisendrathVocal Arrangements
- Shirley FishmanDramaturg
- Ann JamesSensitivity Specialist
- Eva BarnesDialect Coach
- The Telsey OfficeNew York Casting
- Jacole KitchenIn-House Casting
- Jess SlocumStage Manager
- Topaz CooksAssistant Stage Manager
- Nicholas Lambros SmithAssistant Stage Manager
- Becca DuhaimeProduction Manager
- Ryan MeisheidGeneral Manager
- Eric Keen-LouieExecutive Producer
Gallery
Venue Info
Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre
The Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre is a black box flexible theatre seating up to 450 patrons, and the centerpiece of the 6,500-square-foot Joan and Irwin Jacobs Center.
