The Gist Andrew Fox on “Slam Frank”: Make Something Dangerous
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Sep 22, 2025 Andrew Fox, a writer-composer known for the provocative musical Slam Frank, discusses his bold take on Anne Frank’s story through satirical theater. He reveals how the production pushes boundaries, igniting conversations around diversity and identity. Fox shares insights on the creative process behind catchy, Hamilton-esque songs infused with joy and rage. He also reflects on the backlash from industry gatekeepers and social media, defending the need for art that challenges prescribed norms.
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Casting Choices And Early Reactions
- Andrew Fox describes characters reimagined for Slam Frank, like Edith Frank as a playwright's idea of a strong Black woman and Otto Frank with neurodivergence.
- He says they wrote a full musical, did a table read, and were later discouraged by BMI from returning with it.
Prescribed Language Can Dehumanize
- Fox argues prescribed progressive language can become cultlike and dehumanizing when enforced without changing room diversity.
- He links this to people speaking in terms nobody uses and losing perspective empathy for historical figures.
Workshopping Performative Progressivism
- Fox recounts the BMI advanced program culture where many participants say they want to "lift up marginalized people," producing performative solidarity.
- This inspired the show's catchphrase: "I just wanted to lift up the people who are beneath me."
