The world premiere of "ABSOLUTELY FREAKED - an experiential rock concert featuring the early works of Frank Zappa" was staged at Open Stage of Harrisburg on January 10 - 14, 2019. ABSOLUTELY FREAKED was authorized by the Zappa estate, with arrangements and book by Joseph Osborne, direction by Chris Gibson and music direction by Nick Werner. This world premiere showcases Frank Zappa's early works from 1966 to 1972 – including the classic Zappa and the Mother of Invention songs “Plastic People”, “Dirty Love”, “Who Are The Brain Police”, “Going To Montana”, “Brown Shoes Don’t Make It” and more.
ABSOLUTELY FREAKED! was conceived and developed to provide audience members with an intimate and fierce experience – filled with art – music, graphic art, visual art and lighting. The concert was also designed and arranged to showcase various performers rather than being a tribute band.
ABSOLUTETLY FREAKED! features Stacy Werner, T.J. Creedon, Hanni Sindelar, Nicholas Werner, Chris Gibson, T.J. Cole, Anthony Pieruccini, Joseph Osborne and Jeremy Blouch. Graphic and visual designs are by Bri Dow and Rachel Landon. Promotional art by Ryan Spahn and photography by Norman Seef.
Zappa's early works were groundbreaking and integrated various genres into his music - from doo-wop to rock to jazz - while creating songs that featured lyrics that ranged from humorous to eccentric and from provocative to shocking. ABSOLUTELY FREAKED! provides the experimental and experiential vibe of Zappa and The Mothers of Invention, and is a tribute to Zappa's transformative performances without being a tribute band.
