Every now and then an artist resonates with audiences because of their authenticity. For Benjamin Scheuer and his autobiographical musical, The Lion, the irresistible charm of his praised memoir for the stage is all parts simple and truthful but, most importantly, it is unwaveringly believable.
It's obvious that the appeal behind Mr. Scheuer is his ability to channel deeply personal childhood stories. But fans are attracted to his smooth Mike Kinsella-esque guitar playing, booming bass of a voice and, also, his perfectly coiffed hair and linen suits.
Perhaps a purposely calculated aesthetic but the songs speak a truth that is applicable to listeners of any stripe. Thus, a true story of love, loss, family loyalty and the redeeming powers of music, Mr. Scheuer has coined a new production that's likely to stick around for a great while.
In collaboration with director Sean Daniels, the anecdotal quality of the musician's autobiographical suite is one all its own. Having been diagnosed with lymphoma at 28 and, now 32 and cancer-free, the weight of his words proves to be a unique blend of singer-songwriter and storyteller.
So with a limited engagement from Feb. 3 to March 29 at the Lynn Redgrave Theater at Culture Project be sure to pick up your tickets before they go out the door and be sure to get some more info on the performance here.
Check out an exclusive in-performance from Scheuer at The New York Times here and get up to snuff with him below.
