This week, Forti-Rock Productions presents its second performance of the 2021-2022 school year: “35MM: A Musical Exhibition.”

“Tyler Rock and I just finished directing ‘Rocky’ and we couldn’t wait to start another show,” director Fran Forti said. Forti and co-director Tyler Rock previously worked together to bring the “Rocky Horror Picture Show” to Memorial Auditorium in October 2021.

Unlike “Rocky,” this show may not be the most recognizable. “35MM,” was written by Ryan Scott Oliver and premiered in 2012. The exhibition is based on the photography of Matthew Murphy, New York City artist and husband to Oliver. 

“I’ve never been in a production quite like ‘35MM.’ Most of the shows I’ve been in in the past have been much more approachable to casual viewers,” said cast member Adam Beam. “But that’s why I love ‘35MM,’ because it’s so different. No song is alike, and I think that helps draw in listeners. There’s something there for everybody.”

The contemporary musical calls for a small, bold cast. The characters sing solo and ensemble numbers in 15 individual vignettes that correspond with one of Murphy’s photographs. While the songs do provide the photographs with a sort of narrative, the themes are more abstract and rely on emotion and interpretation. In the musical’s own words: “A picture cannot paint a thousand words, but it can conjure up a song.”

“I decided to co-direct this show with Fran because of the impact the lyrics hold on the listener,” Rock said. “They truly emphasize the importance of stopping time to focus on the moment you are living within, which is such a beautiful concept to explore theatrically.” 

“35MM” is less about a cohesive narrative and focuses inward. Many musicals depict jubilant full-company numbers and lavish sets, but “35MM” is different in its exploration of what it means to love and be loved. 

“I’m looking forward to performing ‘Leave Luanne’ and ‘The Ballad of Sara Berry’ live for an audience,” said music director Matthew Zemba. “These are powerhouse songs, and it feels amazing plating accompaniment alongside such talented vocalists. I can’t wait to show off all of our hard work.”

“Leave Luanne” and “The Ballad of Sara Berry” are the more well-known numbers from “35MM.”  The songs have a pop-rock feel almost reminiscent of Jonathan Larson’s “Rent.” This digestible sound leaves room for the lyrics to dive into “harder topics that most people don’t usually like to talk about,” according to cast member Pierce Romey.

“35MM” is set to open on March 31 at 8 p.m. in Memorial Auditorium. The following shows are on April 1 at 8 p.m. and April 2 at 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. The show does contain strong language and content that is not suitable for younger viewers. Masks are recommended for the safety of the performers. 

“This show is so beautifully unique; I can’t wait to bring it to Memorial Auditorium,” said cast member Bailey Cassada.

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