Kokandy Productions Presents the Midwest Premiere of ALICE BY HEART July 18 – September 29, 2024 at The Chopin Theatre

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Kokandy Productions Presents the Midwest Premiere of

ALICE BY HEART

July 18 – September 29, 2024 at The Chopin Theatre

  

Pictured (front to back) Joe Giovannetti and Caitlyn Cerza in a publicity image for

Kokandy Productions’ Midwest premiere of Alice by Heart. Photo by Collin Quinn Rice.

 

Book by Steven Sater and Jessie Nelson

Music by Duncan Sheik

Lyrics by Steven Sater

Directed by Derek Van Barham and Brittney Brown

Music Direction by Heidi Joosten

Choreography by Derek Van Barham 

Kokandy Productions is pleased to present the Midwest premiere of Alice by Heart, a “magical, fantastical” musical inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland directed by Derek Van Barham and Brittney Brown, with music direction by Heidi Joosten and choreography by Derek Van Barham. Alice by Heart will play July 18 – September 29, 2024 at The Chopin Studio Theatre, 1543 W. Division St. in Chicago. Tickets are now on sale at kokandyproductions.com. We'll be out for the press opening August 2, so check back shortly after for our full review. 

Caitlyn Cerza stars as Alice, the young girl who takes refuge in her beloved copy of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. She is joined by a whimsical cast of curious characters including Ezra Borrero (Nigel, Dormouse), Elliot Esquivel (Angus, Caterpillar, u/s Alfred), Niki-Charise Franco (Red Cross Nurse, Queen of Hearts), Joe Giovannetti (Alfred, White Rabbit), Darian Goulding (Dr. Butridge, Jabberwocky, King of Hearts), Will Lidke (Harold Pudding, Mad Hatter), Emily Ling Mei (Young Alice), Patrick O'Keefe (Dodgy, Duchess), Mizha Overn (Tabatha, Cheshire Cat), Alex Stetkevich (Clarissa, Mock Turtle) and Peter Stielstra (Young Alfred). Swings include Sophia Mae Brenner, Victor Lopez, Kevin Parra, Jack Saunders and Ava Stovall.

From the Tony and Grammy Award-winning creators of Spring Awakening, Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik, and co-written by Jessie Nelson (Waitress), Alice by Heart is a touching musical that invites audiences to go through the looking glass, seeking solace in a Wonderland unlike any they’ve seen.

In the rubble of the London Blitz of World War II, Alice Spencer’s budding teen life is turned upside down as she and her dear friend Alfred are forced to take shelter in an underground tube station. When the ailing Alfred is quarantined, Alice encourages him to escape with her into their cherished book and journey down the rabbit hole to Wonderland. As they travel through the tale, Alice by Heart explores the poignancy of first love, coming to terms with loss and finding the courage to move forward. This Midwest premiere encourages us all to celebrate the transformational power of the imagination, even in the harshest of times.

Kokandy Producing Artistic Director Derek Van Barham says, “Get ready to fall in love with Alice by Heart. We sure did. It’s a show that Scot, Brittney, Heidi and I have listened to for years, and we’re just delighted to be able to share it with Chicago. The Chopin basement will be transformed into Wonderland, the audience experiencing Alice’s beautiful journey up close and all around them. It’s dark, whimsical and witty—a curious twist on a story we think we know.”

The production team includes: G "Max" Maxin IV (Scenic Design and Lighting Design), Mike Patrick and Matt Reich (Sound Design), Rachel Sypniewski (Costume Design), Jakob Abderhalden (Properties Designer, Scenic Décor), Syd Genco (Makeup Design), Keith Ryan (Wig Design), Nicholas Reinhart (Production Manager), Shane Roberie (Casting Associate), David Moreland (Technical Director), Lynsy Folckomer (Sound Engineer) and Shelby Burgus (Stage Manager).

 

PRODUCTION DETAILS:

Location: The Chopin Studio Theatre, 1543 W. Division St., Chicago

Dates: Previews: Thursday, July 18 at 7 pm, Friday, July 19 at 7 pm, Saturday, July 20 at 7 pm, Sunday, July 21 at 5 pm, Thursday, July 25 at 7 pm, Friday, July 26 at 7 pm, Saturday, July 27 at 7 pm, Sunday, July 28 at 5 pm and Thursday, August 1 at 7 pm

Press performance: Friday, August 2, 2024 at 7 pm

Regular run: Saturday, August 3 – Sunday, September 29, 2024

Curtain Times: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7 pm; Sundays at 5 pm

Tickets: Previews $25 (with code PREVIEW). Regular run $45 general admission, $55 reserved seating. Students/Seniors $35. There will be a limited number of $15 tickets (with code ARTIST) available to artists for each performance. Tickets are on sale now at kokandyproductions.com.

 

About the Artists

Derek Van Barham (Co-Director and Choreographer, he/him) is the Producing Artistic Director of Kokandy Productions. Directing credits include Children of Eden in Concert (Broadway In Chicago), Sweeney Todd, American Psycho and Head Over Heels (Jeff Awards and Jeff nomination, Kokandy); The View Upstairs (Circle Theatre); Miracle by Dan Savage, Poseidon (Hell in a Handbag); Taylor Mac’s A Walk Across America for Mother Earth and Merrily We Roll Along (CCPA); Songs from an Unmade Bed (Jeff Award nomination) and PRISCILLA, Queen of the Desert (PrideArts). Choreography credits include Evil Dead (Jeff nom.), Coraline the Musical, Ghost Quartet, Shockheaded Peter and Coraline the Musical (Black Button Eyes). He was named one of Newcity Magazine's 50 Players 2024 and one of Windy City Times 30 Under 30, recognizing individuals from Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community. He holds an MFA in Acting from CCPA/Roosevelt University in Chicago. derekvanbarham.com | IG @dvbarham

Brittney Brown (Co-Director, she/her) is a Chicago-based actor and director. Some select Chicago acting credits include: Raven Theatre’s brother sister cyborg space, Blank Theatre’s Merrily We Roll Along, Theo Ubique’s Assassins, Hedwig & the Angry Inch and Sweeney Todd, Kokandy Productions’ Sweeney Todd and Bonnie & Clyde, Pride Arts’ All That He Was (Jeff Nomination—Best Performer in a Supporting Role), Factory Theater’s Kelly Girls (Jeff Nomination—Best Performer in a Principal Role), and Griffin Theatre’s Ragtime and Violet. Brittney was also the associate director for The Story Theatre’s Marie Antoinette and the Magical Negroes, Factory Theater’s May the Road Rise Up and Exit 63’s Wolves. She was a featured director in Broken Nose Theatre’s Bechdel Fest 7: Momentum and directed a staged reading of Paul Michael Thomson’s Artemis Books & the Well-Meaning Man for Avalanche Theatre, as well as the audio drama Primer for Broken Nose Theatre. She has also directed productions of Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson and Calvin Berger.

Heidi Joosten (Music Director, she/her) is a Jeff Award-winning music director (Assassins – Theo Ubique Cabaret), composer, lyricist, pianist, harpist, orchestrator, sound designer, vocal coach and conductor. After last fall’s sold out run of American Psycho, she is absolutely thrilled to be returning to Kokandy Productions for another Duncan Sheik Chicago premiere! Since 2014, Heidi has collaborated on over 100 new theatrical, comedic and concert productions in the Chicagoland area, including serving as the music director and conductor of Children of Eden – starring Destiny’s Child member Michelle Williams, gospel singer David Phelps and singer/songwriter Sam Tsui – performed live at the Cadillac Palace Theatre in October 2022 and available soon to stream. Notable theatrical writing collaborations include: Queer Eye: The Musical Parody, The Bone Harp, Saint Hildegard and Micro. In 2023, she orchestrated for Drury Lane Theater (Grease) as well as the Chicago Shakespeare Theater (Beauty and the Beast) and Theo Ubique Cabaret (add’l arrangements for Assassins), and she also served as the associate/sub conductor on the national tour of Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse with The Sinfonietta. This fall, she will hit the road as the associate conductor of the U.S. leg of the world concert tour of Avatar: The Last Airbender. Heidi’s award-winning original music has been performed across the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia. She is an adjunct professor at North Park University and also serves as the understudy music director for the Second City Mainstage revue. Heidi is a proud member of ASCAP and the Dramatists Guild. heidijoosten.com | IG @heidijoosten

 

About Kokandy Productions

Founded in 2010, Kokandy Productions seeks to leverage the heightened reality of musical theatre to tell complex and challenging stories, with a focus on contributing to the development of Chicago-based musical theatre artists, and raising the profile of Chicago's non-Equity musical theatre community. 

The company's artistic staff is comprised of Derek Van Barham (Producing Artistic Director), Scot T. Kokandy (Executive Producer) and Adrian Abel Azevedo & Leda Hoffman (Artistic Associates). The Board of Directors includes Preston Cropp, Scot T. Kokandy, Danielle Sparklin and Katie Svaicer. 

For additional information, visit kokandyproductions.com. 

 

 

REVIEW: ARTISTIC BRAVURA Ensemble Español's "Flamenco Passion" Program Superb

 Chi, IL Live Shows On Our Radar 

ENSEMBLE ESPAÑOL SPANISH DANCE THEATER’S 2024

 “FLAMENCO PASSION” CONCERTS

SHOWCASE WORLD PREMIERES CREATED BY ACCLAIMED INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS AT THE NORTH SHORE CENTER JUNE 7-9

LaLupi with musicians Diego Alvarez, Jose Diaz El Chachito, Curio de Maria, 

Jose Moreno and Jose Alconchel.  Photo by Dean Paul

Exciting Premieres Include “Viejos Aires” / Flamenco Tango by Award-winning Choreographer Antonio Najarro 

“Resliencia” / Resilience and “El Bolero de Puerta de Tierra” by Former Principal Dancer with the National Ballet of Spain, Raquel Gomez; and 

“Compas de Seda” / Silk Rhythm by Flamenco Superstar La Lupi

Guest Review 

by Flo Mano

ARTISTIC BRAVURA 

Ensemble Espanol at North Shore Center for performing Arts opened to dramatic lighting, marigold costumes, and jazz fusion that gave a modern feel to "Sur",  choreographed by guest artist Raquel Gomez.

In her solo world premiere, "Resilencia", Raquel Gomez was impassioned. Her exceptional dancing within the perimeters of a movable geometric rectangle to square was impressive to see. I enjoyed the lighting from above by Dustin L. Derry.

“El Bolero de Puerta de Terra”, a world premiere, was a feather like flamenco on ballet slippers by the entire company, choreographed by Raquel Gomez, and inspired by Dame Libby‘s “Seguidillas”.

This piece was followed by Flamenco guitarist, Curro de Maria, with “Mi Andalusia”.

Jonathan Pacheco with Ensemble Espanol Company Dancers in Fantasia Suite Regional-Tribute to Juanjo Linares. Photo by Dean Paul

Folklore legend Juanjo Linares’ “Fantasia Suite Regional” depicted exerpts from Galicia-Extremadura & Valencia, individual & intertwining seamlessly!

A stupendous performance of "Chamberi" was perfection, by guest artist La Lupi. Her mastery commanded the utmost attention, as the audience collectively held its breath, so as not to miss a second. Every precision move in her “Batas de Cola” was hypnotic, as she effortlessly tossed & swayed her long train dress. I was struck by the intensity of her jaleo sounds and facial expressions.

The musicians' synchronized percussion-palmas-Spanish guitar and singing transported one to Andalusia.

“Pasion Oculta" was danced by 5 couples to Escala electronic string quartet “Requiem for a Tower” & “Palladio” flawlessly, to loud applause!

"Compas de Seda", another world premiere choreographed by La Lupi, featured stylized fans & shawls. Flamenco Guajiras is a melange of Andalusian-Canary island and Afro-Cuban palo dance, and an amazing  ensemble piece. Loved the fade to silhouettes. 

La Lupi was superb in her solo “A Silvetio”!!! 

The final dance was a world premiere of Flamenco Tango, “Viejos Aires”, by multitalented Argentinian guest Artist Antonio Najaro, choreographer/dancer/costume designer extraordinaire! Very Impressive!! Astounding even!!!

Ensemble Espanol is stretching beyond in this exquisite production! They will be performing at old Town school of music & NEIU. 

DO NOT MISS!! Imbibe dance!!!

Florence Manolis (AKA: Flo Mano) is a Greek American CPS elementary teacher/librarian, hairdresser, and theater/dance/film fanatic who catches hundreds of Chicago shows annually. She volunteers at numerous film venues and theaters and has called Chicago home since she immigrated here from Greece in early elementary school. 

Jonathan Pacheco and Samantha Micklewright in Viejos Aires by Antonio Najarro. 

Photo by Casey Mitchell

Popular Works from Ensemble Español’s Repertoire in the Traditional and Contemporary Genres Complete the Program

Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater, in residence at Northeastern Illinois University, brings their popular “Flamenco Passion” performances to the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd., 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 7 and Saturday, June 8 and 3 p.m. Sunday, June 9. These performances are part of the company’s 48th multi-faceted American Spanish Dance and Music Festival (June 7-15).

“Flamenco Passion” program highlights include the world premiere of “Viejos Aires” / Flamenco Tango as reset on Ensemble Español by Antonio Najarro, award-winning choreographer and former artistic director of the National Ballet of Spain, choreographer of Disney movie "WISH.

” Najarro’s work features a fusion of Spanish classical style and Argentinean Tango and displays the sensuality, passion and elegance of Buenos Aires.

Additional world premieres include “Resliencia” / Resilience and “El Bolero de Puerta de Tierra” (Escuela Bolera) choreographed by Raquel Gomez, former principal dancer and Rehearsal Director of the National Ballet of Spain; and the Cuban influenced dance “Compas de Seda” / Silk Rhythm choreographed by Flamenco superstar La Lupi, to an original music composition by Curro de Maria.Works from Ensemble Espanol’s repertoire included in the program include “Sur” by Raquel Gomez (2015); “Fantasia Suite Regional” choregraphed by Juanjo Linares and Nana Lorca (1977) and “Pasion Oculta” /Hidden Passion choreographed by Ensemble Español Artistic Director Irma Suarez Ruiz (2019).Joining the members of Ensemble Español in performance will be guest dancer/choreographers includingRaquel Gomez, La Lupi and Antonio Najarro; and featured musicians including José Díaz “El Cachito”(singer), José Alconchel and Curro de Maria (guitarists); Diego “El Negro” Alvarez and José Moreno (percussionists).

“Every ‘Flamenco Passion’ festival performance is meant to entertain and highlight the timeless yet ever-evolving art that is Flamenco as performed by Chicago’s premiere Spanish dance company Ensemble Español,” says Executive Director and Associate Artistic Director Jorge Perez. “We also pride ourselves in our record of collaborating with some of the most exciting voices in Flamenco, Escuela Bolera, Classical and Folkloric as we maintain our important role as active participants in the continue evolution of this exciting music and dance form,” says Ruiz, Ensemble Español Artistic Director.

The “Flamenco Passion” performances are part of Ensemble Español’s 48th American Spanish Dance and Music Festival which also features these related events:

● VIP-Pre-Opening Night Reception: Preceding the Saturday, June 8 performance there will be a “Meet

the Artists” VIP Pre-Opening Night Reception in the North Shore Center on the 2nd level. Tickets are

$65 (includes VIP seating for that evening’s performance). To purchase tickets and for more information

visit NorthShoreCenter.org/ee/ or call 847.673.6300.

● Free Ethnic Dance & Music Symposium 2024 at NEIU (June 10-12) Topics include: “The Complexities of Covering Ethnic Dance & Music” and “Arts Economic Ecosystem: The New Workforce Development Plan to Build Strong Community” (June 10); :Ethnic Arts Crossing Genres” and “Expanding Flamenco Musical Language” (June 11) and “It’s a Family Affair Ethnic Art, Oral Traditions, Art as a Way of Life” and “From Flamenco to Tap and All That Jazz” (June 12). All sessions take place at NEIU, 5500 N. St. Louis Ave. Admission is free, but reservations are requested. For more information and to register visit ensembleflamencopassion.org/symposium.

● Festival Spanish Dance Classes at Northeastern Illinois University Dance Studios NEIU, 5500 N. St. Louis Avenue (June 10-15) Over 100 Spanish dance and music classes in Flamenco, Classical, Escuela Bolera and Folklore. Single class rate $35. For more class information and registration visit ensembleflamencopassion.org/classes or email at Patricia Mendez at patricia.mendez@eesdt.org.

● Concerts at Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. –“Flamenco to Tap and All That Jazz” with Wendy Clinard, Bril Barrett, Diego "El Negro" Álvarez, José Moreno, José Diaz "Cachito", José Manuel Alconchel, 8 p.m. June 13; “Duende Flamenco” with La Lupi, Nino de los Reyes, Curro de María, Diego "El Negro" Álvarez, José Moreno and José Diaz "Cachito" 8 p.m. June 15. Tickets: $30.

For tickets visit oldtownschool.org/concerts.

About Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater 

Ensemble Español, founded in 1976 by Dame Libby Komaiko, is the premiere Spanish dance company and center in the U.S. with a professional and unique residency at Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago. Under the artistic direction of Irma Suarez Ruiz and executive leadership of Jorge Perez, the Ensemble continues its mission of preservation, presentation and promotion of Spanish dance and culture which also includes the exploration of the country’s history in the; Flamenco, Folkloric, Classical and Escuela Bolera styles and identifies its influence on Latin American art and dance in both traditional and contemporary formats. They forge ahead as the leaders in Spanish dance and culture with a commitment to our communities, via performances, education, school residencies, academic university programs, festivals and tours. They remain committed to their roots in education and mission of educational, artistic, and social development. Their incredibly rich history includes serving over 30,000 students annually, training over 90 company dancers, training over 160 Youth Company dancers from ages 12 to 18, over 90 international guest artists and musicians from Spain and the Americas, over 2,600 scholarships awarded to talented aspiring dancers, musicians and educators, tours and residencies of U.S., including Hawaii, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Poland, Australia, Canada, China and Spain. For more information on concerts, performances, classes and residencies, visit EnsembleEspanol.org.

Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theatre in residence at Northeastern Illinois University is grateful to thefollowing 48th Season Festival Partners and Sponsors: Northeastern Illinois University, Interim President, Katrina Bell-Jordan, Ph.D., NEIU Department of Music and Dance, Caerus Foundation, Hurvis Foundation, Illinois Arts Council, Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, Microsoft, Eugene Jarvis and Sasha Gerritson, Salme and Michael Steinberg, Sonia Florian,Estate of Gregory Ragsdale and the Ragsdale Family, FourStar Branding, The Nest, Jaleo by Jose Andres, Atzimba Catering and Events, Stonewolf Studios, Clinard Dance Theater, Instituto Cervantes, International Latino Cultural Center, Negocios Now, HMS Media and Chicago Dance Supply.

Special thank you to the Northeastern Illinois University Board of Trustees, NEIU Foundation, the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts and festival official hotel sponsor, Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago North Shore and O’Hare.

Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater 

“Flamenco Passion” Performances 

at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, June 7-9

Act 1

“Sur” / South (2015)

Choreographer and Costume Designer: Raquel Gomez, Guest Artist

Music: David Dorantes, Pianist and Composer

Costume Production: Luz Creations Lighting Designer: Original concept by Nathan Tomlinson

Lighting design reimagined in 2023 by Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Company

Raquel Gomez created this work that reaches back to the traditions of the Escuela Bolera (classical Spanish style) from the 18th Century, as it simultaneously embraces contemporary Flamenco music. “’Sur’ proves…that something with so much tradition and such deep cultural roots…can be current and keep its deepest history.” (Raquel Gomez)

Raquel Gomez performing her work Resiliencia. Photo by Dean Paul

“Resiliencia” / Resilience (Clasico Español), WORLD PREMIERE

Choreographer, Costume Design, Dancer: Raquel Gomez, Guest Artist

Music: Joni Fuller

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry

“The ability of the human spirit to overcome the obstacles that life challenges us with. It does not matter how much life challenges us with, what matters is how strong we become every time we get up.” (Raquel Gomez)

“El Bolero de Puerta de Tierra” (Escuela Bolera), WORLD PREMIERE

Choreographer: Raquel Gomez, inspired by Antonio Ruiz

Music: Isaac Albeniz (1860-1909)

Costume Design: Raquel Rodriguez Ruiz-Medrano

Costume Production: Luz Creations

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Sammi Micklewright, Abigail Mosquera, Jonathan Pacheco, Irene Sivianes Fernandez, Martina Wensell

“My inspiration when putting together this choreography was the great teacher and dancer Antonio Ruiz. Ruiz was one of the first major artists to implement classical ballet in Spanish dance companies. This style and choreography requires great technical experience and artistry of classical ballet. My second inspiration was Ensemble Español’s beautiful and elegant choreography, ‘Seguidillas,’ performed by Dame Libby Komaiko. The work was set in 1977 by former artistic director of the National Ballet of Spain, Nana Lorca, to the Spanish zarzuela (light opera) music of ‘El Nino Judío’ by Pablo Luna.” (Raquel Gomez)

“Mi Andulicia”

Flamenco Guitarist: Curro de Maria

“Fantasia Suite Regional”

- Tribute to Juanjo Linares (1977)

Choreography by Nana Lorca, former artistic director of the National Ballet of Spain and (1984-2000): Juanjo Linares

Music: Traditional; Fernando Arias, Milladoiro, M. Padilla, Ginet, Guidi & Caserio

Costume Design: Juanjo Linares

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Company

Maestro Juanjo (Sept.1933 -Nov. 2009) created 25 works for the full company from 1984 through 2000. As Spain’s foremost authority on folklore, Juanjo’s detail to the style, customs and celebration of the people of each region in Spain made him the legendary master on this art form. Now Ensemble Español honors his legacy by presenting excerpts from the regions of Galicia, Extremadura, and Valencia. Ensemble Espanol’s Irma Suarez Ruiz and Jorge Pérez have both performed and been a part of Juanjo’s works with the Ensemble Español since his first residency to Chicago in 1984.

“Chamberí” (Flamenco Caracoles) (2023)

Choreographer & Dancer : La Lupi, Guest Artist

Music: Curro de Maria & Pedro Medina

Musicians: Curro de Maria, Jose Alconchel, guitarists; Jose Diaz El Cachito, singer; Diego “El Negro” Alvarez, percussionist; José Moreno, singer, percussionist

Costume Design: La Lupi & Enrique Vicent

Lighting Design: Carlos Rodriguez

Chamberí, the oldest train station in Madrid. The cante por Caracoles, conceived by the singer D. Antonio

Chacón, pays tribute to the city as a key point for Andalusian artists who arrived and left for the capital. Madrid, with its open arms, welcomed these artists in a warm and hospitable way.

“Pasion Oculta”/ Hidden Passion (2019)

Choreographer and Costume Designer: Irma Suarez Ruiz, Artistic Director

Music: Escala

Costume Production: Luz Creations

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Company

This Flamenco contemporary work, set on five couples of Ensemble Español Company dancers by artistic director, Irma Suarez Ruiz, portrays the hidden passions of love and desire. Ruiz set this sensual work to two songs by the all-female electronic string quartet, Escala: “Requiem for a Tower” and “Palladio.”

Act 2

“Compas de Seda” / Silk Rhythm, WORLD PREMIERE

Choreographer & Costume Designer: La Lupi, Guest Artist

Music Composition: Curro de Maria

Costume Design & Production: Enrique Vicent

Lighting Design : Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Nalanie Molina, Sammi Micklewright, Abigail Mosquera, Irene Sivianes Fernandez, Maria Lujan,

Catherine Beza, Jose Torres, Juan Carlos Castellon, Luis Beltran, Jonathan Pacheco, Sergio Rojas, Miguel Conde

This work, in the Flamenco Guajiras palo/style dance, is based on the sung genre of Cuban music, a poetic art with music. A guajira is simply a song for voice and guitar with a series of similar letras. It became popular in the western and central regions of Cuba in the 17th century and consolidated as a genre in the 18th century. It has Andalusian and Canary Islands origins, and it integrated African elements in Cuba. The Flamenco guajira is the adaptation to Melos Flamenco of the Cuban point, the peasant point, a genre that brings together a series of songs called Guajiros that are grown in the rural areas of the island of Cuba.

“Duende Flamenco”

Music: Curro de Maria, Jose Alconchel, guitarists; Jose Diaz El Cachito, singer; Diego “El Negro” Alvarez, percussionist; José Moreno, singer, percussionist

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry

“A Silverio” (2022)

Choreographer and Dancer: La Lupi

Music: Curro de Maria and Livio Gianola

Costume Design: Enrique Vicent

Lighting Design: Tito Osuna

“…a bravura showcase of Flamenco Abandolaos and Serrana styles” (WTTW).

“Viejos Aires” / Flamenco Tango, WORLD PREMIERE

Choreographer, Dancer, Costume Designer: Antonio Najarro, Guest Artist

Music: Astor Piazzolla (1921-1992)

Costume Production: Enrique Vicente

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Section 1: “Otoño Porteno” - the Company; Section 2: “Fuga y Misterio” - Antonio Najarro, Guest Artist

Antonio Najarro performs a solo in his Viejos Aires. Photo by Dean Paul

Section 3: “Viejos Aires” – the Company

“Choreographing my creation 'Viejos Aires' on the Ensemble Español dancers represented a personal reunion with the repertoire of my own dance company. ‘Viejos Aires’ has a choreography that has given me numerous successes throughout its presentation and performances in the best theaters around the world. Irma and Jorge’s invitation to set this work on the Ensemble Español as part of their extensive repertoire was exciting. I wanted to merge two very different styles in terms of technical elements: Argentinean tango and Spanish dance, including my own personal style. In Ensemble Español, I clearly saw a company with great desire and enthusiasm to assimilate, face and interpret this complex work. ‘Viejos Aires,’ from my point of view, is a timeless passionate choreography that speaks from the heart to the heart. (Antonio Najarro)

REVIEW: World Premiere of Otherworld's GARTERS: A QUEER IMMERSIVE ROMANTASY PLAY A Perfect Pick For Pride Month

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

 OTHERWORLD THEATRE'S WORLD PREMIERE OF

GARTERS: A QUEER IMMERSIVE ROMANTASY PLAY

(18+)

From l to r Chloe Basset, Kylie Carrol, Bruce Holtman, Quinton Walker - Photo by Nadir Waxali

Evocative Theatrical Journey Explores Themes of Romance, Gender Identity, 

and Representation

GARTERS is thoughtfully crafted for mature audiences aged 18 and older; viewer discretion is advised. 

 

May 31 - July 7, 2024

Guest Review

by Dugan Kenaz-Mara

In Garters we follow the tale of the knight Sir Yvain on not his, not her, but their quest to retrieve a magical object for their king. Garters does an excellent job of exploring and explaining the nonbinary identity in a way that elucidates some of the struggles nonbinary people face. The play also uses a butterfly motif as a representation of gender and calls attention to the existence of the chimera butterfly - a naturally nonbinary animal - to easily lead people with no knowledge of gender identities into the conversation. If you’re looking for a performance during pride month, Garters is a perfect pick. 

Jenny Hoppes and Kira Nutter - Photo by Nadir Waxali

Before seeing the show, there are a few things to take note of. First, it is rated R for sexual content. There is a bed placed at the center of the audience, and despite being obscured slightly by a veil, the audience members closest to it are mere inches from actors getting intimate. In a similar vein, the rest of the audience is incredibly close to the action. The house is tiny, with approximately 23 seats in 2 rows, meaning the actors (and their swords) get fairly close. The ensemble also talks to the audience during transitions between acts. Finally, because of the close nature of the seats, accessibility may be a concern for some people. We noticed that the seats at the end of the back row were high up without a step, and the gentleman next to us had trouble getting to it. Of course, the front row is still a great option and asking others to move may have helped make an easier path to those seats, but it is still worth noting. 

Garters is a story full of fantasy tropes that features the plentiful twists and turns that come with the genre. There’s a sprinkle of murder, a dash of espionage, and more disguises than you can count. 

The plot has just enough fantasy worldbuilding to make you feel like you’re actually a part of the world. We learn slowly throughout the show of the secret connections between characters, the folk tales that the people of the land heard growing up, the different occupations and lifestyles in each region of the journey, and most importantly the existence and importance of magic in the world. I loved how the magic brought morality questions into the story that we don’t face in real life. After all, if you can’t rule a kingdom without magic, should you really rule at all?

Yvain played by Kira Nutter - Photographer Parrish Davis-Sauls

A definite highlight of the show was the stage combat. Thanks to the intimate space, all of the action was easily visible and the audience got to feel like they were in the heart of it. One fight involves the entire cast, and utilizes swords, staves, and a rope for clever combat that you don’t get to see often. 

An additional fun tidbit is that there was a raffia fan laid out on each seat for the audience to use. They could be used as actual fans if the theater got too hot, but were also perfect for hiding your face from an intimate moment or talkative actor. 

Otherworld Theatre Company, the premier sci-fi and fantasy live theatre production company in North America, presents their world premiere mounting of playwright Natalie Zutter’s GARTERS: A QUEER IMMERSIVE ROMANTASY PLAY, running May 31 - July 7, 2024 at the theatre’s storefront location at 3914 N. Clark St. Tickets ($27 with some pay-what-you-can tickets available for each performance) available at www.otherworldtheatre. 

Dugan Kenaz-Mara is a designer, photographer, educator, and recent graduate of 

Northwestern University.

L to r Jenny Hoppes and Kira Nutter - Photo by Nadir Waxali

Once, two girls disguised themselves as boys to train to become knights. Seven years later, an unconventional knight and a worldly whore fallen on hard times meet at a brothel in the middle of nowhere and embark on an epic quest. Inspired by the works of Tamora Pierce and Jacqueline Carey, GARTERS is an epic fantasy play about the limited roles available to women and nonbinary folks in quest stories, and what happens when they don’t get to be the hero but don’t want to be the damsel. Experience an evocative theatrical journey exploring themes of romance, gender identity, and LGBTQ+ representation, thoughtfully crafted for mature audiences aged 18 and older.

GARTERS performances will be held Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $27 and can be purchased at www.otherworldtheatre; there are a limited number of Pay-What-You-Can tickets available for each performance. 

Hedy played by Jenny Hoppes- Photographer Parrish Davis-Sauls

Written By: Natalie Zutter

Directed By:  Blake Hood

Cast: Kira Nutter (Sir Yvain), Jenny Hoppes (Hedy), Jerome Michael Jones (Varic), Lauren Miller (Lady Dagomar), Chloe Basset (Lady Clotilda), Bruce Holtman (Innkeeper), Quinton Walker (Bandit), and Kylie Carroll (Laundress)

Production Team: Abbey Schnell (Stage Manager), Parrish Davis-Sauls (Costume Designer), Blake Hood & Tiffany Keane Schaefer (Set Designers), Sam Campos (Fight Director), Becca Schwartz (Intimacy Director), and Jake Mayer (Media Designer), Schnell & Hood (Lighting Designers)

Dates: May 31 - July 7, 2024

Press Opening: Friday, May 31, 2024 at 7 p.m.

Schedule: Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.

Location: Otherworld Theatre, 3914 N. Clark St.

Tickets: General Admission: $27 with a limited number of pay-what-you-can tickets available for each performance. GARTERS is thoughtfully crafted for mature audiences aged 18 and older; viewer discretion is advised.

Box Office: www.otherworldtheatre.

ABOUT OTHERWORLD THEATRE COMPANY

Otherworld Theatre Company (3914 N. Clark St.) was founded in 2012 to bring a theatrical experience to the science fiction and fantasy genre. The Company’s work celebrates the depth of human imagination by engaging spectators in high quality storytelling. Otherworld Theatre Company stages original works in its pay-what-you-can Chicago, Illinois venue, presents virtual programming online, and produces immersive Live-Action Role Playing events through its partner company, Moonrise Games. For more information: www.otherworldtheatre.org

HELP OUT: MUSIC BOX: REVIVE AT 95 Mingles Something Old With Something New

Music Box Theatre to undergo 

monumental main-auditorium revitalization project in August

MUSIC BOX: REVIVE AT 95 

Campaign to include New Seats, Flooring & Lighting Upgrades, and More 

 The Music Box Theatre is announcing a major revitalization of its 740-seat main auditorium as part of the MUSIC BOX: REVIVE AT 95 campaign, celebrating the 95th anniversary of the venue. During this project, the main theatre will be closed from August 12 to September 5, with upgrades including new seats (with cupholders!); improved auditorium lighting; refinished carpeting and flooring; refurbishment of our original proscenium arch; and expanded ADA capabilities with T-Coil Hearing Loop System.

This closure marks the first time since 1982 that the Music Box's larger theater has been shut down for any type of upgrades. The rest of the theater, including our smaller house and garden movie screenings, will remain open as normal. "Thinking about the historical value that the Music Box has to the City of Chicago, it's incredible to me that this 95-year-old institution has lasted as long as it has and continues to inspire filmmakers and filmgoers to walk through its doors," says General Manager Ryan Oestreich. "As the guardians of the Music Box Theatre, it's up to us to ensure that its history and vibrancy are preserved into the next century."

For nearly 95 years, the Music Box Theatre has been a haven for countless passionate moviegoers, providing unique programming 365 days a year. Described in 1929 as a place of “lasting beauty and great durability,” we’re still going strong as our 100th birthday quickly approaches. The goal is to keep this venue a community institution long into the future.

For more information on the MUSIC BOX: REVIVE AT 95 project and details on seat sponsorships and other donation options, go to: https://revive.musicboxtheatre.com.

Because all those memories and all that cinema have taken their toll on the space, the MUSIC BOX: REVIVE AT 95 campaign will be open to audience participation. There will be two options for the public to participate, where our dedicated audience can either "Sponsor A Seat" or "Make A Donation" and actively see their contribution payoff to these revitalizations.

1. Sponsor A Seat: Our seats have seen a lot of audiences and are ready for a well-deserved retirement. While keeping the same style as our current seats, we’ll be installing new, more comfortable seats with cup holders. These seats will last us for years to come, and sponsoring one is a chance to leave a lasting legacy at the Music Box.

You can sponsor a seat in honor of yourself, a loved one, or your business, and the name will be permanently engraved on a plate on the armrest (Seat plates are 7/8 x 2-1/2 inches). You'll also be recognized on the Music Box website. Plates can contain messages of one or two lines, up to 15 characters per line (including spaces).

Seat Pricing:

Single Seat: $750

Two Seats: $1400

We also accept payments in installments (split evenly over 6 or 12 months).

A limited number of seats are available. Seat locations are chosen randomly and do not guarantee your seat location for screenings. Plates will remain for the duration of the usable life of the new seats. Please note that contributions to MUSIC BOX: REVIVE AT 95 are not tax deductible. 

2. Make A Donation: For those opting not to sponsor a seat, you can still contribute to the revitalization of the Music Box in the donation amount that suits you. Support starts at $25, and all donors will be listed on our website. Gifts of $100 or more receive a free Music Box merch item (poster, mug, etc.).

Terms & Conditions

Music Box reserves the right to refuse/ refund inappropriate or offensive plates

Seat plates will be placed on the seats at the completion of payment

In the event that a Sponsor cannot complete installment payments, seat plates will not be placed on the seat(s) and no refunds of previous payments will be administered 

WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THE OLD SEATS?

We know the old seats have a special place in many people’s hearts. We are working with local nonprofit, Rebuilding Exchange, to find new homes for the seats. Stay tuned for more information. 

Become a member: https://www.musicboxtheatre.com/membership/become-a-member

 

About Music Box Theatre:

Operating since 1929, the Music Box Theatre has been the premier venue in Chicago for independent and foreign films for more than four decades, playing host to over 200,000 patrons annually. It currently has the largest theater space operated full time in the city. The Music Box Theatre is independently owned and operated by the Southport Music Box Corporation. SMBC, through its Music Box Films division, also distributes foreign and independent films in the theatrical, DVD, and television markets throughout the United States.

Regular events produced, presented, and hosted at Music Box Theatre include the 70mm Film Festival; Music Box Christmas Sing-a-long and Double Feature, the annual 24-hour horror-movie marathon Music Box of Horrors; and Noir City: Chicago, co-presented by the Film Noir Foundation.

Follow the Music Box Theatre on Facebook (www.facebook.com/musicboxchicago/), Twitter (@musicboxtheatre), Instagram (@musicboxchicago), TikTok @musicbox_chicago