Jagged Little Pill the Musical

Overview

One of the great things about Alanis Morissette's discography is that it's filled with songs and lyrics that prove apt in plenty of situations. You oughta know that there's a musical dedicated to the Canadian singer's tunes, for instance — and now that it's coming back to Sydney this winter, you might want to say thank you.

This news isn't like rain on your wedding day. It doesn't resemble finding a black fly in your chardonnay. And it definitely isn't anything like hitting a traffic jam when you're already late, either. But, it will have you singing those lines, because Tony-winner Jagged Little Pill the Musical will return to Theatre Royal Sydney for a second run.

The Broadway show's trip Down Under kicked off at the same venue last December, then moved to Melbourne. Now, it's back in Sydney from Saturday, July 9–Sunday, August 21.

Inspired by Alanis Morissette's 1995 album of the same name, Jagged Little Pill the Musical weaves a story around songs from that iconic record. So yes, it's a jukebox musical like Mamma Mia!, We Will Rock You and Rock of Ages.

Famed tracks 'Ironic', 'You Oughta Know', 'Hand in My Pocket', 'Head Over Feet' and 'You Learn' all feature, in a production that boasts music by Morissette and her album co-writer and producer Glen Ballard, lyrics by Morissette, and a book by Juno Oscar-winner Diablo Cody. And, songs such as 'Thank U', 'So Pure', 'That I Would Be Good', 'So Unsexy' and 'Hands Clean' all pop up as well, even though they hail from the musician's subsequent albums.

The show stars Natalie Bassingthwaighte as Mary Jane Healey, with Jagged Little Pill the Musical telling the Healey family's tale as they struggle with their seemingly idyllic suburban lives after a troubling event in their community.

Expect to hear Morissette's tunes — including two new songs written just for the show — used in a story about social issues relevant to today, but also with an overall message of hope, healing and togetherness.

Images: Jagged Little Pill the Musical, Australian production, Daniel Boud.