Raleigh
The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas
Stewart Theatre, N.C. StateWith its randy title and boisterous songs, this over-the-top musical has been a hit since its original production in 1977. It’s based on the true story of the Chicken Ranch, a Texas brothel that ran from the 1840s to 1973, serving as a clean, well-run den of vice for everyone from politicians to football teams, until public scandal forced it to close its doors. The story takes place over the course of the ranch’s last weekend, as its former clients find themselves desperate to distance themselves while reporter Melvin P. Thorpe (Rob Steinberg) makes it his mission to “expose” the ranch’s business.
A deft satire of hypocrisy and the moral majority, Whorehouse is a favorite of musical theater, though Colin Higgins’ 1982 film is mostly memorable for Burt Reynolds’ singing and Dolly Parton’s giant … hair. This particular production, directed by John McIlwee, features numerous University Theatre veterans in the major roles, including Steven Deutsch as Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd and Laura-Nelle Parnell as Miss Mona, the madam. The show runs Oct. 1-5. For more information, visit www.ncsu.edu/arts; call 515-1100 for tickets. It’s probably best if you don’t take the kids. Zack Smith
