"The Original Tribute to The Blues Brothers" show is shimmying onto the John R. Emens Auditorium stage tonight at 7:30 for a one-night performance. While ticket prices can cost up to $42, students can receive them for free if they stop by the Emens Box office before 6 p.m. or otherwise pay $10 at the door.
Based off of the 1980 Chicago-set comedy starring Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi, Robert Myers, director of Emens and Pruis Hall, said that the Blues Brothers performance will be a mix of musical numbers and comedy.
"It doesn't follow a total story line," Myers said. "The show contrasts quite a lot with the shows we've been hosting this year like 'The Beauty and the Beast' and 'In the Heights.' This is a different show altogether. It definitely bring variety to selections."
Matt Wolfert, associate athletics director for External Affairs, was reminiscent of "The Blues Brothers" film.
"I am absolutely a fan. It's one of those classic movies when I was a teen. It's one of those movies you watch to share a laugh with friends," Wolfert said. "Back then, the guys Aykroyd and Belushi, were popular on Saturday Night Live and it really just turned into a classic through the years."
Wolfert and his wife are frequent theatergoers of Emens and he said he particularly looks forward to this production.
"I'm certainly excited for the music, which is great, and the comedy," Wolfert said. "It will be interesting to see how they adapt the musical to the film."
While Bruce Morgan, director of the Student Center and Programs, wouldn't call himself a huge fan of the film itself, he said he is drawn by the music.
"Their music is high energy and fun," he said. "You can't just sit there and listen to it."
Myers mentioned that "The Blues Brothers" may appeal to those in the middle-aged demographic because they may be more familiar with the film, however students show attraction to the show's entertainment appeal.
"I've never seen the movie, but I saw the fliers at Emens and the show looked like it is going to be fun," Melissa Shaw, sophomore early childhood education major, said. "I'm also going to see whether I like 'The Blues Brothers.'"
Even President Jo Ann Gora is putting the show on her agenda, said Joan Todd, executive director of public relations.
Myers said "The Original Tribute to The Blues Brothers" has traveled across the United Kingdom and are now entering their first U.S. Tour. And while Muncie may be no Chicago, for one night, it will have all of the ambiance of Aykroyd and Belushi - sunglasses, suits and all - in the big city.
"I expect lots of music, a very entertaining show and the audience being on their feet the entire time," Morgan said.
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