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Standard checkout grants non-exclusive rights for this show, your listed venue, date window, and performance count.





Awards for plays and playwrights:


























🤘 The Hit 1980s Rock Opera is Back!
🎸 Don't miss "Gideon Vs. the Gods of Cool" (back for year 3), a musical adventure like no other, based on the highly-rated Young Adult novel and 2 times AML nomination. Created by award-winning playwright and composer, Stephen Gashler, this mind-warping high school adventure, packed with 1980s nostalgia, comedy, romance, and supernatural twists, will have you on the edge of your seat.
When Gideon Greenwich discovers that his school is being controlled by evil beings posing as teachers, he boldly takes a stand. But challenging the goddess of normality, the god of sports, the goddess of fashion, and the goddess of so-called music brings chaos to Eastward High. Cliques are transcended, and jocks become nerds as the very fabric of reality unravels.
Experience high-energy dance numbers and exciting music with songs in the styles of Michael Jackson, David Bowie, Blondie, The Bangles, Dead or Alive, Simple Minds, Berlin, Rick Springfield, and more. Whether or not your family experienced the 80s, all ages will relate to this thought-provoking musical comedy that questions what it means to be cool. With uplifting themes of finding inner strength and standing against destructive social norms, "Gideon Vs. the Gods of Cool" is a supernaturally entertaining experience for one and all.
When Gideon Greenwich accidentally discovers that his fellow students are being controlled by evil beings posing as teachers, he realizes someone must take a stand. But challenging the the god of sports, the goddess of fashion, and the god of so-called music unleashes otherworldly resistance, bringing chaos to Eastward High. Cliques are transcended, and jocks become nerds as the very fabric of reality unravels.
In this thoughtful and hilarious jab at high school life, national award-winning storyteller, Stephen Gashler, questions what it means to be “cool”.
Play and Playwrights Featured In:

Director fit
A teen-centered musical that lets students play school life, status, awkwardness, and courage from the inside.
A strong school-season candidate because the characters and conflicts are built around student life.
By purchasing a standard production license, you get the first three public performances included, plus access to the available digital production materials after payment is confirmed.
Standard checkout grants non-exclusive rights for this show, your listed venue, date window, and performance count.
Recording, streaming, adaptations, translations, exclusivity, tours, and professional rights should be requested before purchase.
If your school needs a purchase order or invoice, choose that option in checkout and we will follow up with billing details.
Use the perusal script, score sample, and contact form to check cast size, content, and production needs before committing.
Professional, regional, tour, Broadway, West End, exclusive, and unusual-rights requests should use the custom quote option in checkout.
Full of surprising and humorous twists that you simply can’t miss!"Front Row Reviewers
I left the theater smiling and hungry for more"Utah Theater Bloggers
The talented, comedic acting, the catchy songs, and the story’s layered symbolism make the play worth coming back to see repeatedly"Theatre Review

If, after reviewing the materials, you decide this show is not a fit for your organization, let us know within 30 days and we will refund your purchase before rehearsals or public announcements begin.

Award-winning playwrights and composers Stephen and Teresa Gashler have been featured on KUTV, BYU Radio, Serve Daily, Meridian Magazine, Utah Valley Magazine, Voyage Utah Magazine, My Community Magazine, and at festivals and events throughout the country. Their YouTube channel has had over 16 million views.
Known for their world-class music, fantastic storytelling, uplifiting messages, and a unique blend of drama and comedy, their works have been delighting audiences for over 20 years. Stephen's plays have been produced throughout the United States, and he's taken home many awards, including first place at the National Storytelling Network slam. Among Teresa's distinctions are the Vera Hinckley Mayhew award for playwriting and "Best Actress" from the 2022 Angelus Awards.
The Gashler team is excited to work with you to help bring your productions to life. Have questions or feedback? Need help making something work? They'll be happy to make recommendations or provide solutions to help make your productions successful.