That’s Weird, Abuelita - A Director Converses with Himself
Posted by Luke on June 24, 2011
Luke with a pencil and paper: Tell us about the origins and purpose of That’s Weird, Abuelita (TWA).
Luke in a black turtle neck: I’ve been thinking about this show that opens tonight at Little Village High School for quite some time. We have partnered with both Little Village Academy and Columbia Explorers Academy for many years and the students there have written hundreds of hilarious and heartfelt stories which we’ve adapted for the stage. I’m excited for us to share these stories in the community where they originated.
Luke with a pencil and paper: What can people look forward to about this particular show?
Luke in a black turtle neck: The show has a very strong visual aesthetic. Usually this is present in our shows about 20% of the time. In TWA it’s more like 80 or 90%. I would say it is the most physical performance BOM has ever done (as evidenced by how exhausted everyone is after a run). We have some really amazing visual artists in our company and so it’s great to be able to showcase that. It’s been a newer development in our aesthetic and I’m really delighted in how we’ve grown as visual storytellers.
Luke with a pencil and paper: If people—
Luke in a black turtle neck: I also have to say that the work and assistance of the fluent Spanish speakers in the show (Marla, Ricky and Lacy) has been invaluable. We have a handful of others who dabble in the language or have been game to try and that’s made a huge difference in what we’ve been capable of achieving.
Luke with a pencil and paper: Great. If people are worried about getting hungry during the show, what do you suggest?
Luke in a black turtle neck: Deal with it. Ha, J/K. You’re in luck. We are going to have free food available outside of the theater before each of the performances (starting at 6:45).
Luke with a pencil and paper: More deets, please.
Luke in a black turtle neck: “Deets” is not a word. THAT’S WEIRD, ABUELITA OPENS TONIGHT AND RUNS FOUR FRIDAYS ONLY! (THRU JULY 15TH). THE SHOW IS AT 7:30PM AT LITTLE VILLAGE HIGH SCHOOL (3120 S. KOSTNER AVE.) TICKETS ARE $10 AND $5 FOR KIDS. IT IS FREE IF YOU ARE A PAST BOM STUDENT OR AN LVHS STUDENT.
IF YOU SAY “CONEJO”, YOU GET $2 OFF YOUR TICKET PRICE!! TALK ABOUT CHEAP. CALL 312 409-1954 TO MAKE YOUR RESERVATION OR GO HERE.
Luke with a pencil and paper: This concludes our interview.
Luke in a black turtle neck: I know.