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Tuesday, April 2, 2024

Rex Manning Day Celebration: Tickets Go On Sale for World Premiere of Empire Records Musical and Free Screening of the ‘90s Cult Classic Film




Free Screening of Empire Records post-show Q&A with Carol Heikkinen (writer of Empire Records and Empire Records the musical)


WHEN: Monday, April 8, at 7:00 p.m.
WHERE:
Princeton Garden Theatre, 160 Nassau St., Princeton

Reserve your free tickets at www.princetongardentheatre.org

In anticipation of McCarter Theatre Center's world premiere musical adaptation of Empire Records, we’re throwing it back to the 90’s. Celebrate Rex Manning Day with us by immersing yourself in the original cult classic on the big screen—and on the most iconic day itself!

Following the screening guests will be treated to a Q&A with Empire Records' screenwriter—and book writer of the new musical adaptation—Carol Heikkinen.


About Rex Manning Day
Rex Manning Day, born from the 1995 film Empire Records, commemorates the day aging pop idol Rex Manning visits the Empire Records store for an autograph session. Recognized annually on April 8th, this fictional holiday has transcended its cinematic origins to become a real-world celebration of music, resilience, and camaraderie. It’s a day to embrace the chaotic, the unpredictable, and the sheer joy of being alive, underscored by the timeless message of standing together against the odds.

Empire Records the Musical

WHEN: September 6 – October 6, 2024
WHERE: Berlind Theatre at McCarter Theatre Center, 91 University Place, Princeton, NJ

Tickets on sale on April 8 at 12:00 p.m.

Tickets for the world premiere of Empire Records, a new musical comedy based on the 90’s cult classic, go on sale to the general public on Monday, April 8, at 12:00 p.m.
Tickets may be purchased online at www.mccarter.org, in person at the Patron Services Office or by calling 609-258-2787.

About Empire Records the Musical

Overflowing with optimism, ‘90s counterculture, rooftop dancing, and the spirit of punk rock, Empire Records tells the story of a band of idealistic misfits fighting to save their beloved record store from a corporate takeover. With tactics ranging from desperate to dangerous, the team comes together during a visit by over the hill pop star Rex Manning to discover the true value of friendship, love, and music—all in one extraordinary, unforgettable day.

With music and lyrics by Jonathan Larson Award-winner and Princeton native Zoe Sarnak and a book by original screenwriter Carol Heikkinen, Empire Records is directed by Trip Cullman (Broadway’s Choir Boy, Lobby Hero), choreographed by Ellenore Scott (Broadway’s Funny Girl), and produced by special arrangement with Bill Weiner, Hunter Arnold and Cody Lassen. See it at McCarter first.

For more information about McCarter Theatre Center and its upcoming events, visit www.mccarter.org.