Blue Man Group stays current

By JOHN BENSON

entertainment@vindy.com

The Blue Man Group lives so much in its own universe that it embraces obscure and unique instruments in order to get across its music and message. For example, there’s the small harp-like zither, as well as the oversized guitar-looking Chapman Stick.

Someone who has been playing those instruments in the Blue Man Group since 2007 is Terry Tungjunyatham, who said the outfit’s music now has left behind an arena-rock vibe and has ventured into more of a classical sound.

“It’s a very tribal feel, which whether the audience knows it or not, kind of bringing people together,” said Tungjunyatham, calling from Nashville. “That’s what people I’m sure have felt in the show, but they may not have made that direct connection.”

Audiences taking in the Blue Man Group’s upcoming Warren shows Tuesday and Wednesday at Packard Music Hall can look forward to hearing plenty of original music, as well as covers such as Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” and Beethoven’s “Fur: Elise.”

The quick history of the Blue Man Group begins more than a quarter of a century ago when it started off as a New York City roving street act before becoming an off-Broadway hit. From there, the popular production, featuring three mute performers wearing blue grease paint and black clothing, started touring the nation.

Today, the outfit offers high-impact visual presentation using state-of-the-art technology.

“We work a little bit with technology, and, basically, try to figure out how the Blue Men are dealing with technology in a modern age,” Tungjunyatham said.

The notion of the Blue Man Group reacting to current trends delves into the heart of the show, which, oddly enough, provides a satire of modern life. Specifically, there’s a cerebral dynamic going on where these odd-looking performers — often looking at each other like the wide-eyed Beaker from The Muppets — are holding up a

societal mirror for all to gander at themselves.

“That’s correct. We’re taking

the audience with us as far as how we deal with the ridiculousness or the lighter side of that,” Tungjunyatham said. “And, basically, to see how we deal with that and how we make fun of it, make light of that situation.”

There’s no doubt that some people may have heard about the Blue Man Group, or a few years ago saw them on “America’s Got Talent,” but have no idea what they’re all about. Tungjunyatham said not only can he recognize first-time audience members, but he also enjoys talking to them afterward.

“There’s not necessarily a misconception, but it’s more like how people view the show differently,” Tungjunyatham said. “I’ve heard a lot of things that people get out of the show, certain bits that connect to them more than other people, which I find very interesting.

“If there is one common theme that everybody seems to come out with, it’s just a

really good time enjoying the characters and the music. Overall, they just some out just having fun in the end.”