Aug 29 - Oct 1 Sheila and Hughes Potiker Theatre
Music and lyrics by Joe Iconis
Book by Joe Iconis and Gregory S. Moss
Directed by Christopher Ashley
Some may never live, but the crazy never die.
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 portrait 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. There will be peacocks, there will be breakdowns, there will be fireworks.
“Walk tall, kick ass, learn to speak Arabic, love music and never forget you come from a long line of truth seekers, lovers and warriors.” Hunter S. Thompson
Single tickets and subscriptions are now on sale.
First Look (previews): August 29 – September 9
Weeks 2 – 4: September 10 – October 1
Interested in other shows too? Book 3 or more shows to save on tickets, get early access to the best seats, free exchanges, pay no fees and enjoy additional perks. Explore subscriptions now.
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.
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 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.
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
This show is currently being created. Duration is subject to change and will be updated closer to performance dates.
Content Advisory
This show is currently being created. Any content advisory notes will be updated closer to performance dates.
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
Photo: Dreamstime, Hunter S. Thompson, published by Random House, July 1972.
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.
Get the latest news about the most exciting new shows in San Diego delivered to your inbox.
When you provide your cell, you will get useful reminders about your upcoming tickets, and very occasional texts about big announcements. Rates may apply.
