Among the standout genre movies of this century is Mitchell Lichtenstein‘s 2007 horror comedy “Teeth,” which has earned a special place in the hearts of many fans. Often overlooked, but cherished by those who discovered it, “Teeth” is a unique tale that has become a cult favorite. For those who have enjoyed this film, there’s now even more reason to rejoice, as it’s getting a well-deserved revival in a musical stage play adaptation.

Playwright Michael R. Jackson, known for “A Strange Loop,” has teamed up with Anna K. Jacobs to create the stage playbook for “Teeth,” with Jacobs composing the music and Jackson penning the lyrics. The Off-Broadway debut of the musical is set to take place in February 2024, and it promises to bring a fresh and thrilling perspective to the story.

In the film, Dawn (played by Jess Weixler) is an active member of her high-school chastity club until she meets Tobey (portrayed by Hale Appleman), leading to a life-changing encounter. Dawn discovers she is a living example of the vagina dentata myth when things take a grisly turn. The musical stage play will similarly center on Dawn O’Keefe, an evangelical Christian teenager with a powerful and enigmatic secret – when men violate her, her body bites back, quite literally.

The statement provided by Playwrights Horizons, the theatre company producing the play, hints at the captivating clash between sexuality and religion, igniting theatricality within the narrative. Michael R. Jackson and Anna K. Jacobs weave a tale of revenge and transformation, shedding light on a culture of shame with each song. The musical is described as fierce, rapturous, and savagely entertaining, conjuring the legend of a girl whose sexual curse becomes her salvation in a dark comedy that brims with desire and ancient rage.

Heading the creative team are director Sarah Benson (known for “Fairview”) and choreographer Raja Feather Kelly (“A Strange Loop”). Playwrights Horizons brings this thrilling stage adaptation to life through a special arrangement with Mark Gordon Pictures.

For those who have experienced the gripping and unforgettable world of “Teeth,” the anticipation for this musical stage play adaptation is sure to be intense.