Joe Iconis Creates an Immersive Musical Experience at 54 Below

Joe Iconis delivered an unforgettable musical experience at 54 Below, showcasing his unique blend of storytelling and performance. Running through August 23, 2023, the event featured a talented ensemble of performers who brought Iconis’s imaginative songs to life.

The evening commenced with Iconis at the piano, performing “Wavesong,” a poignant piece that reflects his aspirations for society. The lyrics encapsulate a desire for “a nation of unemployment insurance and contraceptives” alongside “gratification, and funding for the arts.” Infusing humor into the serious tone, he cheekily interjected, “and weed.” The song evolved into a powerful choral arrangement, with the ensemble chanting, “It gets better and worse and better and worse,” symbolizing the ebb and flow of both political and personal struggles.

At 43, Iconis is recognized for his innovative contributions to musical theatre, notably the hit show “Be More Chill,” which graced Broadway for six months in 2019. His performances at supper clubs like Joe’s Pub and 54 Below are meticulously crafted, often feeling akin to full-scale theatrical productions. On this occasion, 26 performers graced the stage, alternating between solo performances and harmonious choral arrangements that rival any Broadway show.

During the concert, Iconis proudly announced his new role as the first official “54 Below Artist in Residence.” He humorously recounted a conversation with his mother, who questioned the legitimacy of his artistic career, saying, “No, this is not a real job.”

The narratives woven into his songs often delve into the experiences of misfits navigating their way through society. A standout moment was “Andy’s Song,” performed by Jeremy Morse. This lively number, styled as a classic show tune, features two singers on kazoo, enhancing its nostalgic charm. The song, part of a proposed musical adaptation of the 2005 film “The 40-Year-Old Virgin,” culminated in a surprise tap-dance break, leaving the audience in stitches.

Another poignant performance came from Morgan Siobhan Green in “Dodge Ball,” where her character grapples with the harsh reality of being overlooked in social situations. In “Party Hat,” Will Roland portrayed a loner finding solace in whimsical attire while attempting to lift his spirits.

The evening also highlighted the emotional depths of Iconis’s work. Veteran performer Lorinda Lisitza delivered a gripping rendition of “Ammonia,” an intense soliloquy that explores themes of isolation and despair, as a middle-aged housewife seeks refuge in household chores.

Songs like “Wavesong” and “Song of the Brown Buffalo,” performed by John El-Jor, are drawn from Iconis’s latest project, “The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical.” This work recently premiered at the Signature Theatre in Arlington, Virginia, generating excitement for its full production.

The performance at 54 Below was both expansive and intimate, with singers enveloping the audience, enhancing the immersive nature of the experience. Iconis, accompanied by guitarists Max Wagner and Eric William Morris, bassist Ian Kagey, and drummer Brent Stranathan, created a vibrant atmosphere that kept the energy high throughout the night.

“Joe Iconis & Family” is a testament to the evolving landscape of musical theatre, blending traditional elements with contemporary themes. The event not only showcased the talents of Iconis and his ensemble but also left the audience with a renewed appreciation for the power of music and storytelling in navigating the complexities of life.