In fact, the engimatic icon has seen somewhat of a resurgence in his popularity, releasing several critically acclaimed albums in recent years, including the Grammy-winning "Time Out of Mind" in 1998.
So, it doesn't seem that far of a stretch when it was announced in 2005 that the Old Globe Theatre was going to premiere a musical, "The Times They Are A-Changin'", based on Dylan's music. Heck, the Who had already adapted "Tommy" for Broadway to great success, and we've seen a number of rock-based musicals mining the catalogs of everyone from Abba to Queen to John Lennon to Billy Joel.
What makes the Dylan endeavor intriguing is that it is conceived, directed and choreographed by Tony Award-winner Twyla Tharp, and is homegrown by our very own Old Globe Theatre.
This exciting new Broadway-bound musical is a classic coming-of-age tale of generational conflict, "The Times They Are A-Changin'" is an electrifying collision of two groundbreaking artists’ legacies.
According to the Old Globe, "The Times They Are A-Changin'" is set within a low-rent traveling circus run by Capt. Arab, whose wagon hasn't moved from its location in some time – though not by lack of effort from his ragtag band of clowns and performers. One such performer is the animal trainer Cleo, a young woman exploited by Capt. Arab and loved by his son, Coyote. Coyote longs for a world outside the confines of the family business, and as the circus show plays out, he must decide whether to flee or stay, and if he does stay, how to inspire change within the troupe. At once dark and humorous, this provocative new musical offers an iconic story – of fathers and sons, of leaders and followers, of immobility and change – that uniquely connects the worlds of music, theatre and dance.
"The Times They Are A-Changin'" makes its world premiere on Jan. 25 at the Old Globe Theatre. The initial run has been extended through March 12. Ticket prices range from $47 to $75 and may be purchased by calling (619) 23-GLOBE or online at theoldglobe.org
