PPAC cancels opening night performance of 'Jagged Little Pill' over technical problem

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WJAR) — Hundreds of theatre lovers left the Providence Performing Arts Center disappointed Tuesday night after technical difficulties canceled the theatre's opening night performance of "Jagged Little Pill, The Musical."

Company manager Jim Harrison said persistent mechanical failures with moving set pieces was the reason for the cancelation.

"It's definitely, you know, disappointing because, you know, we had a full house and people wanting to see the show and of course we'd like them to," said Harrison. "So, I think that it's good that it happened on Tuesday, where we still have seven more shows throughout the week."

Harrison said it happened about 10 minutes into the show. They thought they corrected the issue and restarted the show, but the problem continued, forcing them to cancel the performance.

Actor Chris Hoch, who plays Steve Healy in the production, said no one wants a show to be canceled.

"We're moving these massive, behemoth sets and entire operations, and sometimes there's a glitch, something gets jostled during the move or something," said Hoch. "We're obviously very apologetic to the audience, and we really hope that they come back."

Harrison said the issue has been addressed ahead of Wednesday night's performance and the cast hopes Tuesday night's audience will return.

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"Jagged Little Pill" is recommended for ages 14 and up and features the music of Alanis Morissette. It addresses many everyday topics like sexual assault, drug addiction, transracial adoption, marriage struggles, LGBTQ identity and mental health.

Actress Lauren Chanel plays Frankie Healy, a transracial adoptee in the production. Chanel said she hopes the audience takes away a strong message.

"For me, I always would like for the audience to take away like acceptance, to like, accept the messy parts of you, that aren't really so pretty," Chanel said.

Actor Dillon Klena plays Nick Healy, a role he is closer to than we think.

"My brother Derrick, he originated the role on Broadway and so, to be able to take this character and make it my own, and bring it to the country, has been an amazing experience," said Klena.

"There are some Easter eggs, like the shoes I wore in the show, he also wore, and some of the props that I wear or use, he also wore on Broadway," said Klena.

"Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions. We do go through a lot of different issues in the show that I believe need to be heard and so just hold on to your seats," said Klena. "Get ready to jam out to some awesome songs while listening and seeing some beautiful imagery and a great story."

PPAC said ticket holders for Tuesday night's show have the option to exchange their tickets for a seat at one of the seven remaining performances. They must contact the PPAC box office as soon as possible at 401-421-ARTS.

If audience members do not call the box office by Friday, they will receive a full refund.

The show runs through Sunday at PPAC.