Tick, Tick... Boom!

Musical by Jonathan Larson. In German and English language.

Synopsis

New York in January 1990. One week before his thirtieth birthday, Jon struggles with the expectations of being an adult and that his career as a musical composer is not gaining momentum. Plus, he keeps hearing those ticks and booms ... like a bomb. In their apartment, Michael, his best friend and roommate, formerly an actor and now a big shot in market research, tries to get Jon to take a job in his company. On the roof of the apartment building, Jon indulges in his stirring thoughts. His girlfriend Susan, a dancer, manages to distract Jon for a moment. The next morning, she suggests they move away to the country for a quieter life.

Jon spends Sunday morning at the diner where he has been working for several years to keep his head above water financially. After his shift, he visits Michael's new luxury apartment. Back in Soho, Jon gets caught up in his fears and hopes again; a call from his agent Rosa Stevens adds to this. Susan calls and wants to spend the evening with Jon … a couple’s argument breaks out.

On Monday morning, Jon shows up at Michael's company only to find himself in his own personal hell. Michael can't cope with Jon's depreciating attitude. Jon heads off to a rehearsal of Superbia. To satisfy his cravings, he stocks up on sweets at a kiosk and meets one of his singers, Karessa. Her advances do not go unnoticed by Susan. She makes her decision: she no longer wants to make her dreams dependent on Jon and his professional future and accepts a job offer outside New York. Jon realizes that he has lost her.

The presentation of the musical goes well and Karessa delivers a stunning solo. Now Jon waits in vain for feedback from potential producers. A call from Rosa finally shatters his dream. In despair he wants to give up everything – until Michael unexpectedly confronts him with the diagnosis of AIDS. After a moment of shock Jon comes to his senses.

Saturday evening, birthday party in Soho. Jon realizes that turning thirty isn't so bad after all. A call from his idol, Stephen Sondheim, awakens new hope in him. The ticks and booms get quieter.

Happy Birthday!

Program and cast

Director: Frédéric Buhr
Stage and Costume: Agnes Hasun
Sound Design: Martin Lukesch