The story of “The Scarlet Pimpernel,” a British nobleman who risks his life to save his lady love and other aristocrats during the French Revolution, had a big impact on Off Broadway Theatre’s co-founder and director, Eric Jensen. “It seems that the Scarlet Pimpernel is the inspiration for every superhero story I ever watched and loved as a child,” Jensen explained in his director’s notes. Jensen has created a new musical comedy adaptation of “The Scarlet Pimpernel” which premieres this month on the stage of Draper Historic Theatre.

“The Scarlet Pimpernel” sprang from the imagination of the exiled Hungarian aristocrat Baroness Emmuska Orczy. Originally a play in London’s West End, the tale was published as a popular novel in 1908. Movie adaptations and a Broadway musical followed. 

Co-director Chris Kennedy said, “Eric, as he wrote the script, went back to the book. He wanted it to be a simple story, a love story, one of heroism.” Kennedy acknowledged that while the show has Off Broadway Theatre’s usual humor and “dad jokes” in it, “we’re keeping the theme of why we need a hero in this show.”

Stan Lee regarded the Scarlet Pimpernel as the first of the archetypal heroes who hides behind a mild-mannered disguise, like Superman and Batman. In the story, Sir Percy Blakeney appears to be a foppish nobleman, more concerned with the cut of his waistcoat than anything else. As the Scarlet Pimpernel, he rescues the Lady Marguerite and other French aristocrats from the blade of the guillotine with a posse of brave Englishmen. 

Emerson Peery, one of the actors who plays Sir Percy, said, “It’s fun being two people in the same role. I get to be more flamboyant on stage and then switch into a more manly role.” He added, “When it comes to stage combat, I am trained in different types of swordsmanship.” 

According to the cast members, three aspects of this show make it stand out: epic swordplay, catchy music and the period costumes. Scott Macdonald, who plays the bloodthirsty leader of the Revolutionaries, Chauvelin, said, “There are nearly a dozen sword fights. We’re using real metal. You’ll hear the clanking of the swords.” 

Chuck McDermott, the actor who plays Ozzy, one of Sir Percy’s men, is a medieval reenactor and is helping to stage the combat scenes. “I want to make sure everyone is safe and make it look natural and not choreographed,” he said. “It’s hilarious fun. We get to be over the top. Physical comedy is what I love to do.” 

For the show’s music, Jensen set new lyrics to well-known pop and rock melodies. Nikki North, who plays Madame Robespierre, said, “The music is one of the best parts of the show. We get the best songs, like parodies of Michael Jackson’s ‘Smooth Criminal’ and ‘Kashmir’ by Led Zeppelin.”  

Emily Dahl, who plays the maid, Miss Robbins, added, “The music makes you want to tap your toes.”

The 18th-century-style costumes are resplendent with satin, lace and ruffles. At the time, aristocratic men and women wore elaborate wigs and makeup. Adam Frary, as Hal Dithers, said, “It’s really fun to get into the costumes, it helps you get into character. They’ve done a really good job.”

Wearing a big hoop skirt required some getting used to for Kim Andersen, who plays Marguerite. “I’ve had to practice being near people and sitting down,” she said. 

Playing Marguerite is special for Andersen who is a fan of the original Broadway show. “This cast is so talented. I feel so lucky, they make me want to do better,” she said. 

“If you want to see a good historical comedy, this show is for you,” Dahl said. “It’s full of history, romance and so much humor.” 

Off Broadway Theatre presents "The Scarlet Pimpernel" on the stage of Draper Historic Theatre Aug. 2 through 31. Performances are Monday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. Matinees on Saturdays: Aug. 10, 17, 24, 31 from 2-4 p.m. Draper Historic Theatre is located at 12366 S. 900 East. For tickets visit theobt.org. λ