"SKANKY ME FROM KANKAKEE" - A World Premiere Rock Musical

Firstt, I have to say that going into this I was not sure of what to expect.… I was worried for Marc, worried about the compactness of the theater, worried about how real and raunchy it would be... HOWEVER after two minutes in I was already howling with laughter. Perfectly raunchy! Awkwardly chucking at the real ness of the story - of coming of age, of discovering self, of family and society reality bites, of love... This is one of the most entertaining and fluid MUSICALS - yes a real stage musical where you will fall in love with every character (there are like 5 cast members and about 50 characters they believingly bring to life) you will want to sing the songs (killer band, too) and you will want to download the lyrics. Middle America an... full review

Last year,when Marc from the Hot Tub Club originally told me that he was putting on a one-man semi-autobiographical musical review with live band accompaniment and that I should come, I knew that I must simply comply...Resistance was Futile. I had no expectations, and what I was to experience was utterly amazing. He filled the stage of the North by South Theater at St Mark's Episcopal in Glendale, and in a way helped us, the variegated audience, to somehow feel closer together in the process. The show had so many multi-faceted characters, all played by Marc and all deftly krafted and seemlessly switched and stiched back 'n' forth. It was enough to make Sibyll feel envious and shamelessly inadequate. (Thinking back on it, I am reminded of the... full review

As a straight guy born and raised in a big city, I found this story of a gay man growing up in the middle of nowhere equal parts moving, hilarious, sad, honest, and overall INSPIRING and BEAUTIFUL. Amazing, giving and raw performance by writer/composer/producer/star Marc Francoeur, surrounded by the sexy and versatile ladies of the ensemble who bring the story to life. With catchy and touching songs, my standouts were "Monkey on my back," and "Mission make Marc more macho," while "Black or white" brought a tear to my eye. Go treat yourself to the experience of "Skanky Me from Kankakee."... full review

Skanky Me From Kankakee is a fantastic production by the talented Marc Francoeur. The rock-musical explores Marc's childhood in Kankakee, Illinois. The show is a poignant illustration we all face in life: the desire to be accepted. Francoeur's gay experience in close-minded Kankakee can be felt by all, regardless of sexual orientation. The musical is a beautiful expression of our innate desire to be free and in harmony with ourselves. The entire production is wonderfully executed with creative, catchy songs and wonderful performing in entirety. Skanky Me From Kankakee is engaging, hilarious and genuine; do yourself a favor and see it!... full review

First of all, the name of this musical is incredibly clever...as is the writer and star...this coming of age event truly resonated in every way.....so entertaining on every level....i am delighted to had the opportunity to sit front row center....it moved fast...with great humor...the music was brilliant...i say run don't walk... full review

One of the most funniest yet chilling musicals I've seen. Marc has a great voice and you can really tell that he gives it his all and it's a beautiful story that has to be seen. I recommend this musical to anyone who wants to have a great time and laugh and while that experiencing a story that can not be told any better then this musical ! Absolutely loved it !!... full review

I really enjoyed "Skanky Me!" The musical was a fun way to follow the life of the main character as he came out as a gay man at various times and in various ways. The direction was fluid and kept the action moving, with a "chorus" whose members sang their hearts out and played various individual characters. Choreography fit the small stage nicely, and the small musical ensemble provided perfect back-up. A big thumbs up!... full review

I tale of truth and wit, this piece by Marc Francoeur tells the real story of struggle in a small Midwestern town. Live life through another persons eyes and experience the obstacles and the emotions behind it all. Come grow with Marc as he grows up in Kankakee, where the sidewalks roll up promptly at 8!... full review

"Skanky Me from Kankakee" took me on a ride through all emotions. The stories made me feel like both an outsider and an insider and hit close to home. It put a huge smile on my face and the music made me wanna dance!... full review

I was truly impressed with this show. Even though they worked with a simple set, Marc's descriptive writing and performance created a strong vision in my head of a more elaborate setup. The cast was extremely talented all around; with very fitting vocals. The addition of the band also helped really bring the audiences' imagination to life; especially for the television scene. Marc truly utilized his environment to the best of its ability, so I can only imagine what it would look like in full production! The show as a whole delivers an uplifting but very real depiction of sexuality struggle, primarily for a child/young adult. Bravo!... full review