Eugene’s Oregon Contemporary Theatre (OCT) is bringing back the rock‑n‑roll musical “Lizzie” for a second limited engagement, running through Sunday, Nov. 8. The production returns with the same cast that helped the theatre’s artistic director Craig Willis call last year’s run the company’s “best musical production in 23 years.”
Why the show is returning
When the curtain fell on the 2025 run, cast member Kelly Finch, who played Alice, admitted she was “boo‑hoo crying” because she didn’t want the show to end. “This show has meant a lot for me,” Finch said. “It was my first professional show, and the story is really incredible.” The enthusiasm was mutual; when asked if the cast wanted a reprise, Finch answered “yes” without hesitation. OCT responded by re‑assembling the original ensemble and most of the band for a fresh run.
New technology and choreography
This season’s production benefits from OCT’s upgraded sound system. Performers now use handheld microphones for much of the performance, supplementing the headset mics that were the primary audio source last year. Actress Jocelyn Kerr, who portrays Bridget, explained that the cast spent rehearsal time mastering mic placement on‑ and off‑stage. In addition, several dance numbers that didn’t work in the first run have been re‑choreographed, and a new “glowing‑wings” sign lights up the finale.
Story and themes
“Lizzie” dramatizes the infamous 1892‑93 trial of Lizzie Borden, who was acquitted of the alleged axe murders of her father and stepmother. The case remains unsolved, a fact that draws audiences. Kerr, who has read three books on the subject, noted that the mystery fuels the show’s appeal. She also highlighted a line from the musical where Lizzie claims a blood‑stained rag was menstrual blood, prompting the audience’s reaction, “Nope.”
Abigail Moon, playing Lizzie, says the rock‑n‑roll and punk soundtrack mirrors the heroine’s fight for agency. “Rock ’n’ roll and punk is about speaking up for what you believe, making it loud and raucous, and … putting your truth out there in the world,” she said.
Exploring identity
The production also delves into queerness through a hidden romance between Lizzie and Alice. Finch described the arc: “We start in this very closed‑off thing, and then we break free and we fly.” The theme of flight recurs throughout, from the pigeons Lizzie keeps (her father kills the birds) to the song “The Soul of the White Bird,” which Kerr interprets as a call for collective liberation.
Practical details
Tickets start at $34 and can be purchased online or at the box office. Performances are held at the Oregon Contemporary Theatre, 194 W. Broadway, Eugene.
Community impact
Local arts advocates see the show as a boost for Eugene’s cultural scene, drawing both longtime residents and visitors intrigued by the recent Netflix series “Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story.” The combination of a beloved local cast, upgraded technology, and timely subject matter promises a vibrant theatrical experience for the community.
Original reporting: Homepage – Lookout Eugene-Springfield — read the source article.
