Imagine the transgender musical genre in the times of Rodgers and Hammerstein and their contemporaries. We’d be stuck with a sanitized romance, elaborate choreography and cheery tunes in shows such as OhTheHomo!, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Gynecologist or Seven Brides for Seven Brothers Who Used to Be Sisters.
Thankfully, the greatest musical ever written about a botched sex change in communist Berlin found its way to the stage in 1998 and the big screen three years later. The result is Hedwig and the Angry Inch, a thoroughly engaging story backed by infectious lyrics and rock ‘n roll melodies.
This weekend, you have a unique chance to see the film, whether it’s for the 29th time or you’re an Angry Inch virgin. It all takes place at one of our favorite hangouts, the historic Texas Theatre in Oak Cliff.
Saturday night is a sing-a-long version complete with full drag intermission performed onstage by Nikki Trash. Then there’s a glam rock afterparty in the lobby with DJ Woodtronic and DJ Tigerbee spinning until you either shut the place down or pass out from dancing. Everyone’s encouraged to come in costume (we’ll be wearing our best Lillian Vernon ensemble) for a night that won’t soon be forgotten.
Or, if you’re more of a tame rocker at heart, come back on Sunday night for a standard showing of the film.
Either way, Hedwig deserves your love and devotion. And a killer wig.
Hedwig & the Angry Inch
Tickets: $12
231 West Jefferson Boulveard, Dallas
www.thetexastheatre.com