Following the Lone Tree Arts Center’s successful return to producing theater in 2023 with the musical Dreamgirls and the murder mystery play The Mousetrap, this tradition continues into the fall with a production of the rock ‘n’ roll musical, Million Dollar Quartet.
Inspired by the legendary recording session that took place in1956, at the Sun Record Studios in Memphis, Tennessee, Million Dollar Quartet tells a fictionalized account of this true event. This impromptu jam session brought together four of the most iconic figures in rock and roll history: Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins.
The session was the brainchild of Sam Phillips, the visionary record producer who founded Sun Records and is often credited with discovering the sound of rock and roll. The gathering was a serendipitous event, with the four stars meeting by chance and deciding to record together. Since then, this moment in music history has been known as the “Million Dollar Quartet” due to the immense collective value of the talents involved.
The musical adaptation of this historic event premiered in 2006 and was created by Floyd Mutrux and Colin Escott. Nominated for three Tony Awards, Million Dollar Quartet captures the energy, spontaneity, and raw talent of that day. With the classic makeup of a “jukebox musical,” the production blends the classic hits of the four rock legends with a narrative that explores their personalities, rivalries, and their collective cultural impact. Lone Tree audiences will hear songs like “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Great Balls of Fire,” and “Hound Dog.”
Music Director and Actor, Dom Scott
The creative skills of this cast are considerable – actors are not only required to sing and act, but they must also play their own instruments live on stage. Dominique Scott, musical director and actor performing as Jerry Lee Lewis, pulls double duty as he oversees the overall musical performances and also captures the youthful energy and piano skills that Lewis brought to his performances.
Million Dollar Quartet has enjoyed considerable success both on Broadway and in productions around the world. The musical not only brings to life a pivotal moment in music history but also delves into the complex relationships and dynamics that shaped the early days of rock and roll. The Lone Tree production opens on Thursday, October 17 and runs through Sunday, October 27. Tickets are on sale now at lonetreeartscenter.org – don’t miss the chance to see this iconic quartet in action!
This production is generously supported by Park Meadows Retail Resort. The Lone Tree Arts Center is supported by SCFD and the residents who support it and Colorado Creative Industries.