We Are The Tigers - Original Off-Broadway Cast Recording

"We Are the Tigers: Original Off-Broadway Cast Recording" was released on April 26 by Broadway Records. The production is written and composed by Preston Max Allen ("Never Better," "Carrie 2: The Rage, An Unauthorized Musical Parody"). It was directed by Michael Bello ("Between the Sea and Sky," "Hello Again"). The production began previews on Thursday, February 7, had its official opening on Thursday, February 21 and ran through April 1 at Theater 80 in New York. More information about the musical can be found at www.tigersmusical.com. The recording can be purchased at www.broadwayrecords.com.

"We Are the Tigers" is a sleepover murder horror musical. It's "Bring It On The Musical," but with multiple homicides and a surprising amount of insightful perception into the teenage girl experience. Riley (Lauren Zakrin), Kate (Jenny Rose Baker), Chess (Celeste Rose), Farrah (Zoe Jensen), Annleigh (Kaitlyn Frank), Cairo (Wonu Ogunfowra), Mattie (Cathy Ang), and even mascot Reese (Mimi Scardulla) are members of the Tigers cheer squad. It's the night of the annual team sleepover and morale booster. The team plus romantic character of interest Clark (Louis Griffin) are going to elect the new cheer team captain. That is until the night takes a bloody turn. The worst cheerleading team in the state is about to see if they can be number one at keeping secrets. Those who enjoyed "Heathers The Musical," "Evil Dead The Musical," or even "Jerry Springer The Opera" will stab themselves silly for "We Are the Tigers."

This musical recalls cult classic movies such as "Jennifer's Body" and any other intentionally funny cheerleader slasher film. Tracks such as "Captain of the Team" and "Shut Up and Cheer" cement the production in the genre. "Forever" fulfills the "horny teens" device. It won't take a tactical mastermind for the listener to know that someone won't survive their carnal exploration. "Defence" incorporates classical cheer calls to reveal the plot. The lyrics have a touch of deliciously campy schlock, but this is de rigueur for a musical of this genre.

"Before The Breakdown" and "Move On" are outliers on this album. "Before the Breakdown" tackles identity, mental health and addiction, and the enormous weight of expectations. It's the most serious track on the album. Allen bestows upon the song (and the issues it confronts) all of the severity it deserves. "Move On" is about the fear of losing one's friends after graduation. Both incorporate crunchy harmonies and catchy vocal lines. Tracks like these inspire repeat listenings.

The booklet that accompanies the album comes with production photos of the cast, performance, and album production credits and a transcription of the libretto. A personal author's note from writer and composer Preston Max Allen reveals his appreciation for the album's creation. It's a touching note that emphasizes the importance of communication that will appeal to listeners who reach to musical theatre when being different is too much to bear.

Listeners can rest assured that this album alludes to the murderer without completely giving away the mystery. The musical is not currently in performances, so those interested in knowing all of the details will have to wait for the Wikipedia article to be written or for the show to come to their hometown. Local theatre interested in performing the show will have to wait. Rights haven't been released yet. Until then, the album with its strong pop-vocals and excellent production value will have to suffice.

"We Are The Tigers" was first workshopped at Columbia College Chicago in May 2013. Later that year, it saw a self-produced workshop at the Gene Frankel Theatre before staging two 29-hour readings in 2014 and 2015. In August of 2015, was given developmental residency at Musical Theater Factory. In October 2015, "Tigers" had its first fully staged production at the Hudson Theater in LA. It was presented in concert at Joe's Pub in the Summer of 2018 after being awarded the Ovation Award for best score and being featured in Gallery Players' New Musical Reading Series.

"We Are the Tigers Off-Broadway Cast Album"
Broadway Records
$15.95
https://www.broadwayrecords.com/cds/we-are-the-tigers-original-off-broadway-cast-recording