In the heart of Raleigh, NC, the humor and creativity of the Renaissance come alive with a modern twist at the Raleigh Little Theatre. “Something Rotten!”, a highly acclaimed musical comedy set in the 1590s, captures the hilariously misguided endeavors of brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom to outshine the era’s celebrity playwright, William Shakespeare. Desperate for a hit, they stumble upon the wild prediction that the future of theatre lies in combining singing, dancing, and acting – leading them to write the very first musical.

The brainchild of Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell (book), with music and lyrics by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Karey Kirkpatrick, “Something Rotten!” is a testament to ingenuity in musical theatre. Directed by Susannah Hough, the show is a bold and uproarious journey to an age where ambition intersected with the absurd. Thanks to a special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), Raleigh audiences can now experience this blend of historical fiction and Broadway magic. It’s a reminder that success in the arts might just require being true to oneself – with a generous dose of razzle-dazzle.

The stage is set at the Cantey V. Sutton Theatre, located within the beloved Raleigh Little Theatre, promising a series of performances that will have audiences tapping their feet and laughing until their sides hurt. Mark your calendars: “Something Rotten!” graces the stage with multiple performances, ensuring ample opportunity for Raleigh residents and visitors alike to kickstart their foray into fall with a theatrical extravaganza.

Seating at the Cantey V. Sutton Theatre promises intimacy and an engaging view of the antics onstage, with a configuration that brings the audience closer to the action. Tickets are competitively priced, starting at $86, offering affordability without skimping on the quality of the theatrical experience. Considering the limited seating and high demand for a production of this caliber, securing tickets in advance is advisable. Further exploration of this musical’s journey and additional tour dates, including stops in Stratford, ON, can be found by visiting Raleigh Little Theatre’s website. “Something Rotten!” in Raleigh is not just an event; it’s a celebration of creativity, comedy, and community.