Earlier this week I was given the opportunity by the lovely folks at Sheffield Theatres to watch Green Day's 'American Idiot' the musical at the beautiful Lyceum Theatre.
Following the story of three friends 'American Idiot' turns the 'punk rock opera' album of Green Day's 'American Idiot' into a literal one following the Jesus of Suburbia and American youth coming of age in disillusionment during the Iraq War.
White noise on a TV hung above the stage and with one of the cast loitering whilst a loop of George W Bush began before they launched into the title track.
[American Idiot The Musical]
The three friends find themselves going down different paths, leaving for the city, joining the army, and unintentionally getting pregnant. With each of the stories unfolding on stage, it is that of Johnny played by Tom Milner that creates some of the darkest scenes.
'American Idiot' has pushed the boundaries of the musical, bringing the band onto the stage and making them characters within the set to the point that you do not need to be a Green Day fan to appreciate it.
Every song packs punch and I could feel myself trying not to sing! Although there was much less dialogue than most musicals it was easy to follow with the base messages of their music coming through onto the stage.
[American Idiot The Musical]
I felt it was all over so fast! As the friends came back together after very different disheartened and painful experiences the entire cast joined in with guitars to perform 'Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)' with the audience joining in. Just like every Green Day encore.
Green Day touring 'American Idiot' was the first gig I ever went to without a parent so it brings me a lot fond memories! What I just couldn't believe was how long ago that was, my studded belt and pencil eyeliner definitely didn't last that long.
The musical started in 2009 and now sees itself touring in its 10th anniversary. Just incredible!
'American Idiot' is on in Sheffield until Saturday! There are still tickets available so don't miss out! After that it moves on to Manchester, Birmingham and the rest of the tour!
Have you seen it? What other albums could you see as musicals?
*tickets for American Idiot were gifted but all words and opinions are my own
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