Inspired by Turkish folklore, Chasing Fear tells the story of a boy who leaves home to discover the true meaning of fear and ultimately become an adult. Set against a strikingly contemporary background featuring characters drawn from every corner of the earth, fantasy and reality blur in this adaptation of “The Story of the Boy Who Went Looking for Fear.” As the boy encounters ogres, ghosts, and mermaids, this original musical offers a topical and timeless reflection about outsiders and otherness.

The show has been developed with support from La Jolla Playhouse, New York University, New York Theatre Barn, New Village Arts, and Cygnet Theatre. This expanded and revised production features new musical numbers and showcases the talents of emerging performers at the start of their careers.

Chasing Fear is presented in partnership with by ArtPower at UC San Diego with support from the Campus Performance and Events Office. All performances will be held at the Epstein Family Amphitheater on the UCSD campus. 

​Music & Lyrics by:
Truth Future Bachman

​Conceived and Written by: 
Blake McCarty

Directed by:
Desha Crownover and Sarah Jane Salonga​​​

​Choreography by:
Aisha Reddick​​

​Music Direction by: 
Matt Ignacio

​Orchestrations by: 
Morgan Hollingsworth​

Music Performed by:
​Zen Dubis, Michael Reyes, Steve Jilka, Andrew Baker, Abby Mellardo, Chris Reyes,
Michael Tyree, Isadora Flores, Gabriel de Andrade, Chris Wilson​

Program Manager:
Shellina Hefner