Rob Ford, Mayor of Toronto, has been an endless source of controversy, scandal and crazy-but-true newspaper headlines. The disgraced politician has been involved in half a dozen domestic violence complaints, repeatedly shooting his mouth off on camera, illegal driving practices, loud public disputes (often with members of the media), racism, heavy substance abuse, alcoholism and all-around outrageous behavior.
So naturally, a musical is being made about him.
"Rob Ford the Musical: Birth of a Ford Nation" is in pre-production, planning for a debut in mid-September. Today, the stage show announced the casting of its leading man. Saskatchewan actor and comedian Sheldon Bergstrom will take on the title role of Mayor Rob Ford.
According to Imperial Valley Press, each showing will last 90 minutes and feature 10 original songs written for the show. Those songs reportedly include titles like "It's Good to be Gay!" and "Ford Nation F*** You." The story finds a mysterious "spiritual guide" leading Ford through the past 12 months, a downward spiral of a year that culminated with his entering rehab for drug abuse.
42-year-old Bergstrom reportedly begged the show's producers for the chance to audition, and won the role over 100 other actors based on his talent — although his natural resemblance to Ford didn't hurt. Bergstrom also benefited from an extensive campaign on the show's Facebook page by the residents of his home town of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. He'll star in "Rob Ford the Musical" from September 16 through September 28, 2014, at the Factory Theatre in Toronto.
Ford is currently (and astonishingly) seeking reelection as Mayor of Toronto. That election will take place on October 27, 2014.
