Cancer Elicits Laughter, Cheers, and Standing Ovations

PHOENIX – Who knew cancer could elicit laughs, cheers, standing ovations and rave reviews? “Unbeatable,” the new musical about one woman’s battle with breast cancer, proved a surprise hit in its world premiere. Now, preparing for a September Houston run and hoping for an Off-Broadway debut in October, producers are sponsoring a unique cancer challenge.

The show’s creators and producers (Phoenix Theatre, Stages Repertory Theatre/Pink Ribbons Project) are offering the public a chance to help take “Unbeatable” to the next level. Up for grabs is the naming rights for the show’s fictional Cancer Center. A generous patron of the arts will have his or her name up on the “Unbeatable” stage for three years for a fee of $250,000, including runs in New York, tours and regional theatre. The sponsorship also includes 500 tickets for the New York run, promotion and marketing opportunities and the chance to create a one-of-a-kind legacy. The challenge deadline is right around the corner, September 5, 2008.

Based on the real-life experience of co-creator Laurie Frey, “Unbeatable” the musical mirrors her life and follows the emotional roller coaster ride and dizzying medical labyrinth of the cancer patient Tracy Boyd, a high-powered professional woman whose life is turned upside down by her cancer diagnosis, but ultimately triumphs.

Says Frey, “It entertains, it brings joy and makes you think. ‘Unbeatable’ is more than a cancer journey – anyone who’s had a bad day can relate.”

The Arizona Republic praised the show as “Excellent, fast-moving…whip-cracking comedy and soaring ballads,” while KBAQ Radio called it “an amazing journey that’s sophisticated and accomplished. It should go on to great success. Don’t miss this gem.”

“Unbeatable” was born in the wake of Laurie Frey’s cancer ordeal, which interrupted her career as a tour general manager for entertainers like illusionist David Copperfield. After the announcement from actress Christina Applegate, whose recent cancer led her to choose a double mastectomy, breast cancer continues to be a major health hazard. Says Frey, “‘Unbeatable,’ while an emotional roller coaster ride, still offers a ray of light, hope, and laughter to people everywhere.”

For more information, contact unbeatablemusical@gmail.com or call 216.382.5409. www.unbeatablemusical.com.