RIDGEFIELD -- Leave the kids home for this history lesson. It's a cult musical called "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson," and it's rated "R."

The show opened this weekend at The Ridgefield Theatre Barn and runs through June 28. A mix of historical fact and invention, "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson" uses the story of America's controversial president to investigate the attraction and terrors of American populism.

It's a blend of outrageous comedy and emo rock, and is directed by Alicia Dempster of Danbury. Dempster said there's plenty of reasons our seventh president, who served from 1829 to 1837, is considered controversial.

For starters, he was a wealthy slave owner, yet fought politically against what he denounced as a closed, undemocratic aristocracy. He also forced the relocation of Native American tribes from the Southeast to west of the Mississippi River with his Indian Removal Act of 1830.

"He was responsible for the acquisition of a lot of land at the expense of the Native Americans," Dempster said. Despite that fact, he adopted an Indian boy, Lyncoya, who was found on the battlefield with his dead mother.

And then there was his personality. Jackson was nicknamed Old Hickory because of his aggressive nature. He reportedly fought in duels, some of which ended in death. Fortunately, not his.

"Because this play is an emo-rock musical, he is very angsty, very prone to emotion and outbursts," Dempster said of Jackson. "He's very self-centered in terms of fulfilling his agenda."

Dempster said Jackson's agenda was focused on making the people's voice heard. "He joined the militia and rose up through its ranks. That's where he gained his notoriety and started to seek political leadership. He was the first president who was not a founding father. He was a president of the people, for the people, and by the people."

"So, how does "Bloody Bloody" explore American populism, and why is it rated "R"?

To answer, Dempster first explained that populism refers to the political doctrine followed by populists -- those who believe in the rights or virtues of the common man, especially in contrast with interests of the elite. It's believed that populist sentiment contributed to the American Revolutionary War, and continued to shape the early years of our country.

"The opening number is called `Populism Yea Yea!' There's a line in the song where they say they're taking a stand against the elite," she said. "It's very intelligent humor, but there's lots of language and modern adult references."

It's because of that language and the adult themes that this show is not recommended for children. "Bloody Bloody" has been described as a cross between the raw and sometimes vulgar comedy of "South Park" with the intelligent political commentary of "The Jon Stewart Show."

It also features a driving rock score and smart, funny scenes that are stuffed with satire; it's a blast of energy and attitude. The book is by Alex Timbers, while music and lyrics are by Michael Friedman. Musical direction is by Eli Zoller, choreography is by Regina Sweeney, and Wayne Leiss is the producer.

Seating is cabaret style and folks are encouraged to bring food and drink to enjoy before the show. Doors open one hour prior to curtain.

Ridgefield Theatre Barn, 37 Halpin Lane, Ridgefield, Friday and Saturday evenings, 8 p.m., May 30-June 28, Sundays June 8, 15, 22, 5 p.m.; $26 adults, $22 students and seniors, 203-431-9850, www.ridgefieldtheaterbarn.org.

M. B. Tuccio is a freelance writer. mbtuccio@gmail.com