Callie Perrone, a self-proclaimed history enthusiast, has crafted a unique and captivating musical parody titled 'William Henry Harrison: The Musical'. This creative endeavor pays homage to America's least consequential president, William Henry Harrison, and his brief and uneventful presidency. Perrone's passion for history and her fascination with the contrast between Harrison and the iconic Alexander Hamilton fueled her creative process.
The musical, which Perrone wrote, directed, and produced, is a delightful blend of humor and historical accuracy. It utilizes instantly familiar melodies from Lin-Manuel Miranda's 'Hamilton' to tell the story of Harrison's presidency. Perrone's rapid-fire rhymes and time-bending plot, which jumps between the 1840s and a South Philly Quizzo finale, create a joyful and absurd experience. The show bills itself as 'preposterous, yet painstakingly accurate', reflecting Perrone's dedication to both humor and historical detail.
Perrone's journey to creating this musical began during the pandemic when she and her brother, Nick, explored Harrison's Wikipedia page. They discovered intriguing nuggets of information about Harrison's life, particularly his lack of core beliefs and his flip-flopping on slavery. This contrast with Hamilton's resolute character became the heart of the musical. Perrone's writing process was both spontaneous and challenging, as she had no prior experience in musical theater or acting.
The production features a diverse cast of community actors, including Haverford College alumni Karina Wiener and Erin Berlew. Wiener, the director, is drawn to the musical's layered rhymes, which offer both laughter and sharp parallels to modern political figures. Perrone's role as Anna Harrison, the beleaguered wife of the president, adds a layer of complexity to the story.
Despite the initial skepticism from her family and friends, Perrone's determination and talent have brought 'William Henry Harrison: The Musical' to life. The show's debut on May 22nd at Christ Church Neighborhood House promises to be a unique and entertaining experience, offering a fresh perspective on a largely forgotten figure in American history. Perrone's ability to transform a seemingly uninteresting president into a captivating musical is a testament to her creativity and passion for the arts.
