“When you read the description of Marc Francoeur’s “Skanky Me From Kankakee” you might be inclined, like me, to think its just another one of those coming of age, coming out stories that you’ve seen a hundred times. You would be SO wrong. Marc, an uber-talented singer, performer, writer, paints a hilarious picture of small town america in the 70’s, with a cast of characters we all can relate to..gay or straight: the clueless yet sweet-in-denial mother, stern working class hero dad that believes its better to kill your dream than follow it, and the bullies and confidants you meet along the journey to self discovery. The show moves along at a fast clip with lots of laughs, R-rated exploits, spot on singing with harmonies backed by an excellent trio that provides the music for Marc’s truly gifted original lyrics and compositions. This show will put a smile on your face and a lump in your throat.”
~DON GOLDEN
“A coming of age tale about a young gay boy growing up in the midwest in the 1970’s, “Skanky me from Kankakee ” is full of heart. Marc Francoeur’s songs are beautifully crafted and the show manages to be both personal – it is an autobiography – and universal as we follow his young hero on a quest for love, acceptance and self-acceptance. With references to Big Jim, Charlie’s angels and Barbie’s dream house, “Skanky me…” Is a love letter to the 1970’s as well as a heartfelt exploration of the constant balancing act you must accomplish to survive adolescence when you are ‘different’.”
~JULIEN MAGNAT
“A Knock-Your-Socks-Off Production! If you want an entertaining musical at the Fringe, look no further! Here it is! Great live music, singing and acting, a very talented cast, and an interesting story with a great deal of heart and humor – all adding up to a fun and frolicking time at the theater! Folks, they are going to put on a show for you! And they’re going to give it their all! Marc is a man on a journey, and this account of his struggles to find himself is one I believe everyone can relate to on some level. There are a few references to gay sex, always handled with humor and humanity, but it’s not the dominant theme of this play. There is a well told, interesting, and meaningful story here. There’s also a cast of beautiful, talented, and sexy women in leotards sharing the stage with the lead. So believe me, there’s plenty of eye candy for the straight male. The bottom line is: It’s a great show – for everyone! Now go see it! Highly recommend!”
~RICHARD GRAVES
“I was so incredibly moved and inspired by this show! I laughed my ass off, had tears in my eyes, and was just amazed by the performance of Marc and all of the actors! It was so great I am going to see it again this week! Clever, genuine, and funny- this show is something everyone can relate too. I definitely did having grown up in the Midwest like Marc! A very moving and freeing story, LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!!!!”
~CARRIE MINTER
“While a very personal, 1-man-showish event, it was more irreverent fun than overblown ego. Marc is an open, boy-like spirit who is very engaging & has some pipes on him! Plus he’s a very talented musical writer. The multi-role cast, all women playing both genders, fleshes it out nicely & makes the whole journey more relatable & less ego-driven. “Mom” has an amazing voice too, & the cast looks like they’re having a wacky good time, operating skillfully in the intimate space. Great orchestra, long, beautiful legs doing high kicks, some surprising, colorful staged and sung shocks (to the more puritanical) that make for a good laugh. Maybe could’ve benefitted from an intermission. Had a very enjoyable evening, suitable of the Fringe.”
~CHERYL BRICKER
“Skanky Me From Kankakee ~ The Musical ~ was an awesome ride that flowed like “golden splendor”! I loved the premise and the journey Marc Francoeur, his cast and musicians took me on. The music, dancing, singing and subject matter was a delightfully fun and reflective tour through the pain and splendor of growing up, especially in “middle” America. Marc and his show Skanky Me From Kankakee showed that a bright and shining light can never be dimmed by ignorance and intolerance when you have a true heart. As Marc says in the show, “God likes my flare”! Well so do I and so will you. Go see this show!”
~FELICE HEATHER MONTEITH
“Do you want to Laugh? Cry? Move and Shake?
Then make sure you see Skanky Me from Kankakee – it will make you do that and more!
The sly wit and heartbreaking depth of the script is a stark contrast to the razzle-dazzle, knock down – drag out humor and energy that abounds. It blends beautifully with the original soundtrack that I genuinely expect will produce a couple of Platinum Discs.
Marc Francoeur wrote and stars in this standout project. His compelling acting style is genuine. His feelings appear to radiate to the hearts of his captive audience. He is complimented by a very limber and talented ensemble cast and good background musicians.
Marc Francoeur and Skanky Me from Kankakee are ready for Broadway. The Hudson Theatre is charming, but way too small for the Standing O and Mega Kilowatts in the room!
Make sure buy a baton before you go…you will want to twirl for days!”
~JILL GARNESKI
“First, I have to say that going into this I was not sure of what to expect.…
I was worried for Marc, worried about the compactness of the theater, worried about how real and raunchy it would be… HOWEVER after two minutes in I was already howling with laughter. Perfectly raunchy! Awkwardly chuckling at the realness of the story – of coming of age, of discovering self, of family and society reality bites, of love… This is one of the most entertaining and fluid MUSICALS – yes a real stage musical where you will fall in love with every character (there are like 5 cast members and about 50 characters they believingly bring to life) you will want to sing the songs (killer band, too) and you will want to download the lyrics. Middle America and its stereotypes are embraced and chuckled at – this is a story that Augustine Burroughs would be so proud of … In fact I think he should be invited to see it live!
GO SEE THIS!
Bravo!”
~AMY RAMSKILL
“As a straight guy born and raised in a big city, I found this story of a gay man growing up in the middle of nowhere equal parts moving, hilarious, sad, honest, and overall INSPIRING and BEAUTIFUL. Amazing, giving and raw performance by writer/composer/producer/star Marc Francoeur, surrounded by the sexy and versatile ladies of the ensemble who bring the story to life. With catchy and touching songs, my standouts were “Monkey on my back,” and “Mission make Marc more macho,” while “Black or white” brought a tear to my eye. Go treat yourself to the experience of “Skanky Me from Kankakee.”
~PETER HAGEN
“Skanky Me From Kankakee is a fantastic production by the talented Marc Francoeur. The rock-musical explores Marc’s childhood in Kankakee, Illinois. The show is a poignant illustration we all face in life: the desire to be accepted. Francoeur’s gay experience in close-minded Kankakee can be felt by all, regardless of sexual orientation. The musical is a beautiful expression of our innate desire to be free and in harmony with ourselves. The entire production is wonderfully executed with creative, catchy songs and wonderful performing in entirety. Skanky Me From Kankakee is engaging, hilarious and genuine; do yourself a favor and see it!”
~NEAL ARMSTRONG
“Calling all Fringe Fans. Alright Marc is incredible. This entire show is a brave, shocking, incredibly engaging rock-and-roller coaster of emotions. Marc brings you on a personal journey you will not soon forget, and I am positive you will leave quoting some of his more humorous lines. The supporting ensemble vividly brings to life this story of human triumph against the shallow norms of the narrow-minded Midwest. I sincerely encourage anyone who reads this to go see ‘Skanky Me From Kankakee – The Musical’. It has what you need to call it the best. This story is a lasting one. Thank you Marc.”
~CLAYTON HOVE
“I saw this show on opening night. It was a tremendous show, and like all shows that make me feel all the feels, it left me thinking about life, humanity, and where I belong. I highly recommend it to anybody who wants to simply enjoy their theater experience, or anybody who wants to be left thinking.”
~JOSH W.
“great cast! funny, punny, and everyone involved is very talented. Marc belted it out for 90 minutes straight, and the rest of the cast seamlessly managed several roles (and set/costume changes, to boot!) with aplomb. very entertaining : ) it ‘filled my tanky!’”
~RACHEL BICKLEY
“While a very personal, 1-man-showish event, it was more irreverent fun than overblown ego. Marc is an open, boy-like spirit who is very engaging & has some pipes on him! Plus he’s a very talented musical writer. The multi-role cast, all women playing both genders, fleshes it out nicely & makes the whole journey more relatable & less ego-driven. “Mom” has an amazing voice too, & the cast looks like they’re having a wacky good time, operating skillfully in the intimate space. Great orchestra, long, beautiful legs doing high kicks, some surprising, colorful staged and sung shocks (to the more puritanical) that make for a good laugh. ”
~CHERYL BRICKER
“First of all, the name of this musical is incredibly clever…as is the writer and star…this coming of age event truly resonated in every way…..so entertaining on every level….I am delighted to have had the opportunity to sit front row center….it moved fast…with great humor…the music was brilliant…i say run don’t walk…”
~JOANN SMYTH