The highly anticipated musical *GRIM* is set to debut at the La Jolla Playhouse on Sunday, November 8, introducing a new chapter for Scott Hoying, the talented singer from the acclaimed a cappella group Pentatonix. Hoying has ventured into musical theatre, co-writing the show alongside fellow creatives Joey Orton, Brad Silnutzer, and Petro AP during the challenging times of the pandemic.
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*GRIM* tells a unique story centred around the Grim Reaper and his daughter, Diana, who is poised to take over his responsibilities as he prepares for retirement. The production is scheduled to run until December 13, offering theatre lovers a fresh perspective on life and death through a comedic lens.
Hoying’s journey into the realm of musical theatre wasn’t a straightforward path. His collaboration with Orton began over six years ago while he was developing a parody tied to The Fast and the Furious franchise. Following an impressive show he attended, Hoying approached Orton and his colleagues, expressing his interest in eventually writing together.
The onset of the pandemic catalysed a creative burst between the four writers. They initially devoted their time to crafting quirky TikTok videos and humorous songs, which gained considerable traction online. This collaboration gave rise to what Hoying describes as an “electric kind of chemistry,” ultimately leading to the concept for *GRIM*.
The idea for the musical sprang from a suggestion by Orton, which Hoying was eager to pursue immediately. In a whirlwind of inspiration, they produced the opening number on the very same day the idea was proposed, establishing a routine of daily Zoom meetings for an entire year. This dedication enabled them to fully realise the musical’s vision.
Reflecting on this experience, Hoying expressed his disbelief at seeing the project finally come to life. “It’s been really beautiful to witness,” he remarked, recalling the initial days of collaboration during lockdown. The anticipation builds as the first audiences are welcomed to experience a production born from shared struggles and creativity during an unprecedented time.
Moreover, Hoying’s newfound passion for musical theatre writing has been enlightening. He appreciates the liberating nature of the genre, citing a particular song entitled “Death and Taxes” that encapsulates this freedom of expression. In the narrative, Diana grapples with the concept of inevitability as she prepares to embrace her new role, all while humorously lamenting about taxes in a way that resonates with audiences.
To commemorate the opening night, Hoying is excited about celebrating the accomplishment, particularly with the people who have journeyed alongside him. He plans to host an after-party filled with reminiscing and joy, cherishing memories from their creative process. A self-proclaimed sentimentalist, he often keeps scripts and materials from workshops, and intends to share these historical artefacts at the celebration.
As audiences gear up to enjoy *GRIM*, they will witness a humorous yet poignant exploration of mortality and legacy through the eyes of its lead character, Diana. The musical promises to engage, entertain, and provoke thought, all while showcasing the collective effort of its talented creators.
Those interested in attending *GRIM* can find further details about performance times and ticket information through the La Jolla Playhouse website. The show stands as a testament to creativity’s resilience in the face of adversity, marking a significant milestone for both Hoying and the collaborative team behind this fresh theatrical venture.
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