Something Rotten Is Coming

By Ivy Burling ‘26

This November 14th, 15th, and 16th, Milton Academy’s performing arts department is putting on Something Rotten, a musical comedy originally developed by Karey and Wayne Kirkpatrick along with John O'Farrell. Set in the 1590s, this musical follows two brothers, Nick and Nigel Bottom, as they desperately try to produce a hit play while overshadowed by William Shakespeare. In the end, the Bottoms end up producing the first-ever musical. Now, in November, Milton students will watch this Broadway show put on by their peers in King Theatre. 

  The Kirkpatrick brothers wrote this musical to showcase the struggle of the two brothers, Nick and Nigel Bottom, navigating the theatrical world trying to be the best play writers against competitors like Shakespeare, but failing and ultimately creating something new. In the musical one of the brothers visits a soothsayer, who reveals to him that there will be a new creation in the theater world that involves dancing, acting, and singing all together. This visit prompts the brothers to create one of these new creations.

Something Rotten actor Rhys Adams ‘26 expresses that the play is “about a competition between the more refined creative instincts, and the more jocular.” The play demonstrates these ideas through the competition of the more comedic and playful ideas of the two brothers versus those of Shakespeare, which are more polished because they fit into the constraints of a regular theater production of the era.

The cast has communicated that they are making great progress with the musical as they practice diligently. With many, often complex dance numbers—especially given the size of the cast—significant time has been, and will continue to be, spent on mastering the choreography. 

Claudia Krishnan ‘25 shared, “As a cast, we have really succeeded in bringing the energy and learning the choreography.” She also expressed that at the beginning of the production process it was difficult for a lot of the cast “to find the motivation of their characters in each scene; however, this challenge has already begun to dissolve as we learn more about the musical.” Adams similarly conveyed that “rehearsing with a huge cast is obviously challenging, but we have a very committed, talented group of people who I am sure will deliver a stellar product.” The cast is strong and working together to put the best performance they can together for Milton students and families. 

All the actors look forward to putting on an amazing production and showcasing their hard work. The audience will get to experience a light and comedic musical that intertwines the sides of serious and fun creativity. The actors also hope that their audience will notice and even feel the tension between “the more refined creative instincts” and the more playful ones, as Adams said. With vibrant dance numbers, witty dialogue, and a talented cast, Something Rotten will be an amazing event for those in the audience and on stage. Set your calendars—don’t miss out on the opportunity to support your fellow students and enjoy a night at King Theatre!