Unlock`d, the winner of the Richard Rogers Award for new musicals, was performed this week at the Ravinia Festival in Chicago.
With music by M-Lab`s Derek Gregor, lyrics by Sam Carner and produced by Jana Robbins, Unlock`d was the only musical chosen for the festival this year.The Ravina Festival has a diverse range of acts. Tony Bennett, Beach Boys, Willie Nelson and Sheryl Crow were also on the bill this year.
`Unlock`d` is based on Alexander Pope`s `The Rape of the Lock`. Classical music meets pop in the spoof of an 18th century romance.
The production is being groomed for Broadway. Brad Haak, the show`s musical director, is also involved with Mary Poppins on Broadway.
Producer Jana Robbins will be seen back acting next week when her new movie `The Women` is released. The movie also stars Meg Ryan, Annette Bening, Eva Mendes, Debra Messing, Bette Midler and Candice Bergen.
Over the years, Jana has been seen in `Law & Order`, `Babylon 5`, `Roseanne` and `Cheers`.
Derek is finishing up work on his second album for M-Lab. He is the keyboard player in the band. Drew Brody is on vocals and Mike White on percussion.
M-Lab released their debut album `From Baser Elements` in 2004.
Sam Carner and Derek Gregor MySpace
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