"Belfast Maskers soars headfirst into darkly hilarious territory with its summer musical offering of 'Twisted: The Untold Story of a Royal
Vizier,'" said Maskers, in a news release. The bold, adult-themed comedy runs August 1 through 10, at the Basil Burwell Community Theater.

Originally created by the viral theater troupe Team StarKid—best known for launching "A Very Potter Musical," Twisted flips the familiar tale of Aladdin on its head, telling the story from the perspective of the vilified vizier, Jafar.

"Packed with outrageous humor, sly references to both Disney and Broadway classics, and a surprising amount of heart, this cult-favorite musical explores what happens when villains get to tell their side of the story," said Maskers.

Director Tucker Atwood has dreamed of bringing "Twisted" to the stage since discovering it in college more than a decade ago.

“By the end of the opening number, I knew I wanted to be part of a production someday,” said Atwood. “StarKid had stayed true to their signature raunchy, irreverent humor, but this show surprised me by blending in genuine life lessons and a really touching love story. They gave us everything we wanted—and more. Now, I finally get to pass that experience on to a new audience, with an incredible cast and crew.”

Atwood collaborated with Musical Director David Delano, who coached the vocal performances and will also lead a small band of live musicians in accompanying the performance.

“Twisted is a show that provides singers with both the opportunity to showcase beautiful voices while also engaging fully in the story and comedy of the show," said Delano. "The contrast between the up-tempo dance songs, and the loving ballads, provides an immense amount of speculation for what could come around any corner. The actors have taken to embracing their characters and exploring what the world of 'Twisted' has to offer”

Since its release online in 2013, "Twisted" has become a favorite of fans who appreciate sharp satire, campy comedy, and a love of musicals that don’t take themselves too seriously.

"Belfast Maskers promises this smart, subversive, adults-only show will take Midcoast Maine audiences on a magic carpet ride they won’t forget," said Maskers.

Performances at the Basil Burwell Community Theater, located at 17 Court Street in Belfast, are August 1–2 and August 7–9, at 7 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sundays, August 3 and 10.

General admission seating is $22 with a $4 discount for students and seniors. A $10 preview performance is offered on Thursday, July 31, at 7 p.m. The Friday, August 1 show will be followed immediately by an Opening Night Gala, a social gathering for patrons, cast, and production team with wine, cheese, and other snacks and drinks provided—donations are appreciated.

Belfast Maskers is a nonprofit that counts on donations and sponsorships to fund its programming; the major sponsor of "Twisted" is
Mia's Mobile Pet Service.

Tickets and further details are available now at http://belfastmaskers.com.

Please note: "Twisted" contains strong language and adult themes and is intended for mature audiences.