SWEET MARY JANE

Thanks for your interest in my new project.  Entitled "SWEET MARY JANE," it's a jukebox musical revue that celebrates the marriage of music to marijuana that has lasted over 100 years.

As legalization spreads around the country, the timing for this production could not be better. After two years of virtual confinement, SMJ is a fun-filled distraction that takes the audience on a rollicking journey through time. Beginning in the 1920s with artists like Cab Calloway and Fats Waller, this innovative spectacle takes us on a lyrical tour through Jazz, Swing, Blues, Folk-rock, Funk, Hip Hop, Reggae and Country -- musical genres all mightily influenced by the culture of weed. It's fun, nostalgic and is jam-packed with memorable era-evoking tunes originally performed by Ella Fitzgerald, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Bette Midler, The Coasters, Rick James, The Beatles, Muddy Waters, Snoop and more. The show traces through the music, the symbiotic relationship marijuana has had on generations of music makers.

Initially I plan to stage it cabaret style at a nightclub (The Cutting Room in NYC) where the space itself is the set where the action takes place as if it were an immersive theatrical experience. As with all jukebox musicals, the show is mostly about the music and I've curated a fantastic collection of songs which seamlessly ease into the framework of the piece which, through both melody and narration, chronicles the loving relationship of music to weed.

Demographically, the past decade has seen a sea change.  Americans ages 50 to 65 are now just as likely to smoke weed or consume edibles as teenagers . Baby Boomers were big users back in the 60s and 70s and now want to revisit the experiences of their youth. This is important because it demonstrates the wide appeal that marijuana-related subjects have to audiences both old and young alike - a rare phenomenon.

We all grew up with great music and pot. Who doesn't miss those days?  To me, that sentimental feeling is the secret sauce in the recipe for the show's success!

Another reason I'm high on this idea is that reefer "legality" is relatively NEW!  And because of its newness, I believe it will speak to an audience for years to come.

I'm keeping the production small. 3 or 4 singers, (2 guys, 2 girls) a narrator and 4 onstage musicians. All non-union. An easy set-up to duplicate on the road or on cruise ships, etc.

I know I've got the goods. The subject matter is red hot!  And everyone  will love LOVE the music!  

I'm already starting to get some buzz. I've attached here a recent Sunday Daily News piece.   With the right marketing and PR,  I can make this small show a BIG hit!  But to do it right, I need some help.  

Best,
Danny Fried
917-952-699

Daily News - Sweet Mary Jane