It appears both Andrew Jackson and the musical Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson were/are great dichotomies. The musical, currently being presented by the Know Theatre of Cincinnati, shows our former President to have multiple and contrasting complex identities. Likewise, the show takes on various forms and succeeds and fails in different areas. Strong direction, a talented cast, and worthwhile design help to make this production a solid one, though the piece itself may not be for everyone.

Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson covers the life of the country's seventh president from early childhood until his death. Significant focus is given to his time as a general when he fought (and sometimes slaughtered) American Indians, the Spanish and the British, as well as his time in political office including as the governor of Florida and as the president. Limited attention is also given to his personal life, which included a tumultuous marriage and traumatic childhood.

The book and songs are anachronistic to the setting. The writers use modern rock music and today's slang and vocabulary while telling a story that takes place in the early 1800s. This approach isn't, however, as difficult to connect to here as it is for other recent shows such as Spring Awakening which use a similar style, likely because the authors employ the approach nearly 100% of the time. The libretto by Alex Timbers is full of anger and passion, has intriguing historical perspective (during a time of great national upheaval) and social commentary, and has a hip sensibility. However, at times it also seems like an extended "Saturday Night Live" skit, with sophomoric humor. The show is odd as well in that most of the songs are in the first half of the show, and it feels more like a play with songs than a fully functioning musical. The heavily rock-influenced score by Michael Friedman is tuneful, but tends to comment on the action rather than propelling it forward, and a number of the songs sound similar. Highlights include the jaunty opening "Populism, Yea, Yea!," "Ten Little Indians," which chronicles the plight of many of the native tribes that Jackson encountered, and "The Corrupt Bargain," a comedic piece which conveys the unethical dealings in Washington DC by the established "elitists."

Know Theatre supplies an excellent staging of the show. Director Eric Vosmeier provides a consistent tone, effective blocking and transitions, and enhances the humor of the piece. The scenic and lighting design by Andrew Hungerford is likewise strong. A distressed flag from the era is shown on panels on the back wall, where some limited projections are also shown. The presidential seal which covers the main performance space is put to good use late in the show. Noelle Wedig's costumes are sexy and modern while still conveying characters from nearly 200 years ago. Luka Ashley Carter and the band The Dukes Are Dead provide solid musical accompaniment, though the balance between musicians and singers is sometimes off.

As Andrew Jackson, Kellen York skillfully captures the brash, impulsive and captivating personality of the rough frontiersman turned powerful politician. While his acting is first-rate, Mr. York's singing is weak at times, and he especially struggles with the character's primary song, "I'm Not That Guy." Kelsey Crismon is endearing as Jackson's wife Rachel, conveying emotion with her non-verbals, and singing splendidly. As the Storyteller, Torie Wiggins mines golden nuggets of comedy, displays great timing, and sings very well. The rest of the cast, which includes several students and graduates of the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, provide strong vocals, varied characterizations, and committed and energetic performances.

Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson is both thought provoking and broadly silly. It has some rockin' tunes, but also feels like a play. Like the subject of the piece, the show is hard to define and its merits depend somewhat on the perspective by which an audience member views it. Know Theatre of Cincinnati provides a praiseworthy production in part due to its extremely talented cast and solid creative staff. The musical runs through May 12, 2012. Call (513) 300-KNOW for tickets or more information, or visit www.knowtheatre.com.

Also see the current Cincinnati Area Theatre Schedule