ShenanArts presents the evocative and dynamic play, “The Undeniable Sound of Right Now” by Laura Eason, writer and producer of Netflix’s “House of Cards.”
The production is the first show in ShenanArts‘ 2025 artistic season. Set against the backdrop of a legendary rock club in Chicago in 1992, the play tells the story of a father and daughter grappling with how to navigate the family business as electronic music threatens to destroy their legacy.
“I feel this show gets to the heart of what’s really important about raw, live music,” McDaniel said. “The fact that you can go and see someone putting all their heart and soul into a song, playing an instrument that they’ve spent hours perfecting. There is just nothing else that can replace that sensation and human connection.”
For 25 years, club proprietor “Hank,” brought to the stage by Larry Friedland, has served as “Chicago’s ultimate indie rock tastemaker,” leveraging his musical ear to propel countless bands to stardom and turn his bar into an epicenter of rock. However, the club is struggling to make ends meet as the house music and rave scene begins to overtake the city. His daughter, “Lena,” brought to the stage by Cori McDaniel, is conflicted by both her loyalty to her father and fascination with the new sound, but tries to convince him to update the bar and adapt with the times. Matters are complicated as she begins dating an up-and-coming DJ, who represents everything “Hank” despises.
Under the direction of Jeff McDaniel, we watch as father and daughter clash over the bar’s future after a shady landlord increases the rent. The play also features “Hank’s” ex-wife, who tries her best to mediate between the duo.
“The Undeniable Sound of Right Now” is sure to appeal to fans of live rock music and live theatre alike. Riffing off “Hank’s” love of promoting unsigned bands, ShenanArts partners with local music acts 14£bs, Arcade Productions, Drägön Wägön, The Daylilies, The Falsies, The Findells, Heemeyer, The Hot Mamas, The Judy Chops, Shagwüf and Valerie McQueen to underscore the show.
The show contains adult themes and mature language, and is recommended for audiences 13 years old and older.
Performances will be Feb. 20, 21, 22 and 23. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening shows are at 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday matinees are at 3 p.m. Tickets range from $12 to $19 and are available online or at the box office.
ShenanArts is at 300 Churchville Ave., Staunton.
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Rebecca Barnabi
