Beowulf: The Rock Opera

I can't think of a better guy for the job than a horn player from the Tower of Power -- Frank Beard of ZZ Top must have been busy.


It's an ambitious undertaking for the Irish Repertory Theatre, which is presenting a musical version of the epic poem about the legendary young warrior Beowulf who battles a parade of creatures including the demon Grendel. The music is by Lenny Pickett, who also co-wrote the lyrics with Lindsey Turner.

Richard Barth stars as the title character. Charlotte Moore directs. Monsters and puppets are designed by Bob Flanagan. "Beowulf," now in previews, opens Oct. 16 at the Rep's theater, 132 W. 22nd St., and will run through Nov. 13. For tickets, call 212-727-2737. For more information, visit the Web site http://www.irishrepertorytheatre.com .