The Disco Biscuits’ ‘Hot Air Balloon’ Rock Opera To Make Theatrical Stage Premiere

The reimagined project The Very Moon debuts on May 13 at FringeArts in Philadelphia.

By Andy Kahn Apr 4, 2023 11:47 am PDT

The Disco Biscuits’ rock opera Hot Air Balloon was first performed in full on December 31, 1998. Adapted for the first time for the theatrical stage, a reimagining of the original rock opera, entitled The Very Moon: A Steampunk Musical,” will premiere on May 13 at FringeArts in Philadelphia.

Though the Disco Biscuits have performed Hot Air Balloon nine times – most recently on the 20th anniversary of its debut – and the nine songs making up the opera have been performed by the band hundreds of times, The Very Moon marks its first adaptation for the musical stage. The Very Moon takes its title from the third scene of the first act of the two-act “Hot Air Balloon.”

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The Very Moon was composed by Bisco guitarist Jon Gutwillig and noted journalist/author Nicholas Schmidle. Additional contributions came from Bisco keyboardist Aron Magner and arranger/musical director Alex Bechtel.

According to the announcement of the “one-night-only event,” following the performance Gutwillig and Schmidle will host a conversation with audience members. Audio and video recordings by audience members will not be allowed for the developmental workshop performance.

The Disco Biscuits have been previewing their upcoming space rock opera, the title of which has not been revealed. Purchase tickets to The Very Moon via the FringeArts box office.

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