Bittersuite: Songs of Experience

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Cast of "Bittersuite:" (L to R) Natalie Norlin, Jeremy Kumbier, Mike Kent and Heather Kent.

press release: "What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger" could be the alternative title to the new show that is being presented by local theater company Penguin Productions. Actually entitled “Bittersuite: Songs of Experience,” the musical revue celebrates human resilience.  

“The music is wonderful,” said director Jill Nadeau. “And even though some of the songs are a little dark, there is a good balance between happy, sad and funny. Just like life. I think the thing to take away, is that the dark doesn’t last forever, there’s something better around the bend!” Nadeau, who designed the sets and costumes, says she went with a Steampunk theme. “It just seemed to fit the songs, dark and gritty but with optimism in creating a better tomorrow,” she said.  

Steampunk is a subgenre of science fiction that incorporates technology and designs that are inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery and fashion.

"Bittersuite" is a musical revue, which means it’s all singing and dancing. The music for the show was written by Ellior Weiss, with lyrics by Michael Champagne. The cast is small, so they have really had to work hard, said Nadeau. The performers are local favorites Heather Kent, Natalie Norlin, Jeremy Kumbier and Mike Kent.  

Most of the choreography was designed by Diane Schultz. Leah Fritsche contributed her talents to a few others. Jim Steffl will provide technical direction.

The show will be performed September 16 and 17 in Watertown at the Watertown Players Theater, 210 S. Water St. and September 23 and 24 at Sound Haven, 412 Madison in Lake Mills. All shows start at 7:30pm. The show has some adult themes and language.  

Tickets are $12 in advance and $16 at the door. They are available at Piggly Wiggly, 1330 Memorial Dr. in Watertown, and on line at www.brownpapertickets.com. Seating is limited and it is highly recommended that tickets be purchased early.

“I think people will really enjoy this show, it’s a little edgier that what most playgoers in the area are used to but they will be entertained!” said Nadeau.