Chicago's Gay "Daddy Off" Musical Twists Twilight

A New Take on a Beloved Franchise

The world of Twilight has always been a unique blend of romance, drama, and supernatural elements. However, few could have predicted that this story, originally inspired by Stephenie Meyer’s own experiences as a straight, Mormon writer, would eventually lead to a gay burlesque number. This unexpected twist is now the centerpiece of Twihard, a parody musical based in Chicago that has captured the hearts of many.

Initially conceived by Tiffany Keane Schaefer, founder of Otherworld Theatre, Twihard was born out of her deep love for the Twilight series. One of the show's most iconic numbers, "Daddy Off," features the beloved father figures from the franchise—Charlie and Carlisle—falling for each other in a cheeky, queer duet. Charlie is even described as a “bear,” adding a layer of humor and inclusivity to the performance.

Queer and trans fans have long embraced Twilight, even before Kristen Stewart famously called it a “gay movie.” They pointed out the series' focus on repressed desire and its abundance of camp, which resonated with many within the LGBTQ+ community. Twihard not only reflects this sentiment but also pays homage to the cultural impact of Twilight during its early 2000s heyday.

Capturing the Spirit of 2008 Fandom

The show’s success lies in its ability to balance humor with affection for the original material. For Schaefer, who is herself a devoted Twihard, the challenge of creating a parody that doesn’t mock the original was made easier by her personal connection to the franchise. She believes that while the movies are undeniably ridiculous, their charm comes from the camp and the love that fans have for them.

Brian Rasmussen, the queer composer behind Twihard, adds that the show’s narrative structure makes it more than just a joke. The audience members, who act as a Greek chorus, serve as a meta-commentary on the fandom experience, making the production feel like a celebration rather than a satire.

Rasmussen also highlights the importance of capturing the late aughts, millennial energy that defined Twilight’s original fanbase. He notes that the music of the time, including bands like My Chemical Romance, Fallout Boy, Panic at the Disco, and Green Day, played a significant role in shaping the score. These influences reflect the emotional depth and rawness of the music from that era, which he believes perfectly complements the themes of Twilight.

A Love Letter to Fandom

For Schaefer, the show is a love letter to the Twilight fandom of 2008. She recalls attending midnight premieres, wearing cloaks, and debating over whether Bella should end up with Edward or Jacob. These memories helped shape the show’s nostalgic tone, which includes references to period-accurate fashion and culture.

Rasmussen emphasizes that the music must reflect both the punk energy of the time and the sincerity of classic musical theater. He believes that the combination of these elements allows the show to resonate with audiences on multiple levels. For instance, Bella’s song captures her yearning and desire to belong, something that many can relate to.

Exploring Queer Themes in Twihard

One of the most talked-about numbers in Twihard is “Daddy Off,” which explores the idea of Charlie and Carlisle being in a romantic relationship. Schaefer explains that the concept came from the wealth of queer fanfiction and memes that existed online. She shared these with Rasmussen, who then created the song using influences from queer music and culture.

Rasmussen admits that he had never written sexy music before, so he turned to playlists filled with funky bass lines to get into the right mindset. He also incorporated elements of Britney Spears’ style into the score, highlighting the diversity of influences that shaped the song.

Why Twilight Resonates With the LGBTQ+ Community

Despite its Mormon origins, Twilight has found a strong following among queer and trans fans. Rasmussen suggests that this may be due to the series’ campiness and its history of queer coding. He points out that vampires, even when portrayed as heterosexual, often carry a sense of ambiguity that appeals to the LGBTQ+ community.

Schaefer adds that the themes of yearning and desire in Twilight mirror the experiences of many people in patriarchal societies. She believes that the show’s exploration of these emotions, along with its emphasis on sexual expression, helps explain its continued appeal.

A Growing Success

Since its debut, Twihard has seen tremendous success. What began as a limited run in February 2024 quickly expanded into sold-out performances and a cabaret-style show at New York City’s 54 Below last October. Now, the musical is set for a six-week run at Chicago’s Apollo Theater, starting July 31.

With its blend of humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments, Twihard continues to captivate audiences and celebrate the enduring legacy of Twilight.