Hands on a Hardbody

August 13-21

Grand Forks Fairgrounds

If there was ever a musical designed to appeal to non-musical theater fans, “Hands on a Hardbody” is it. Phish frontman Trey Anastasio and Amanda Green (who also wrote “Bring it On” with Lin-Manuel Miranda) collaborated on a score that blends the familiar sounds of country, rock and gospel. The tale of a group of working class people competing to win a pickup by keeping their hands on it for days at a time is weird and fun, as these contests are designed to be. But it also highlights the harsh economic realities so many Americans face, especially right now. The fact that the Empire Theatre Company is staging their production at the Grand Forks Fairgrounds and encouraging people to tailgate before the show makes this musical feel welcoming and accessible to newcomers, while challenging the preconceived notions of long-time musical theater fans. https://www.empireartscenter.com/empire-theatre-company