Q
Eric Singel as Tipsy in the 2002 production of Q
Description / Development History
Q- The Songs of Martin & Biello – is a musical revue originally written to celebrate Michael and Dan’s 25th anniversary as songwriters and life-partners. Q is a loving, sexy, irreverent, and deeply joyous expression of life from an LGBT perspective. Performed by an energetic ensemble of five – 2 women, 2 men, and the fabulous Tipsy – a “transgoddess” who dispenses advice (Q-tips) with humor, attitude, and compassion.
Q premiered in 2000 at the Bailiwick Rep in Chicago (directed by David Zak). The 2002 Philly Fringe production (directed by Bill Buddendorf) was cited by Philadelphia Weekly for Best Original Music of the 2002/2003 Theatre Season. Additional productions in 2008 at Philadelphia’s Walnut Street Theatre 5 (directed by Bill Felty) and in Allentown PA (2010).
Press Quotes
“Q is a summer-friendly mix of poignant ballads and satirical sketches … Q has a big heart and some fine songs … Clearly, these talented fellows are capable of penning a major Broadway show.” ~Chicago Tribune
“Martin & Biello’s Q is a sensitive, funny and moving collection of vibrant, original songs celebrating GLBT sexuality. The songs are well-crafted by the writers and enthusiastically presented in this taut and genuine piece.” ~Philadelphia Citypaper
“Q – Martin and Biello’s songbook – is a dazzling one to be sure … What remains constant throughout is Martin’s remarkable gift of crafting intricate and constantly surprising melodies, to which Biello tunes his sharp ear and fits them with perceptive lyrics that both examine and touch the soul.” ~Gay Chicago Magazine
“Q is a terrific little musical” ~Theatermania.com
“Q is a masterfully woven tapestry of comedy, pathos, eroticism and spirituality … Martin and Biello’s memorable melodies and brilliant lyrics are the stuff that musical theater classics are made of … A true high point of Chicago summer theater.” ~Outlines
“After mounting successful productions in Chicago, Miami, and San Francisco, Dan Martin and Michael Biello appear to finally be achieving the hometown recognition they deserve with Q – a musical revue that has become the surprise hit of the Fringe Festival … Q is an hour of nonstop delight.” ~Philadelphia Weekly
The 2008 Cast of Q