The Neo-Futurists AND Bailiwick Chicago Theater in “Chicago’s Weird, Grandma” on November 11!
Posted by Julia on November 6, 2013
Woo boy, aren’t WE lucky? Next Monday’s performance of “Chicago’s Weird, Grandma” will feature TWO fantastic Chicago theater companies: The Neo-Futurists and Bailiwick Chicago Theater.
Kurt Chiang from the Neos answered a few questions for us about working Monkey-style.
(Pictured: Kurt Chiang, Neo-Futurist ensemble member)
What is it like to collaborate with the BOM team?
Monkeys and Neos have a long history together. For one thing, we share a space; “That’s Weird, Grandma” has, as far as I know, always been at the Neo-Futurarium. Also, a LOT of our people mix. Many Monkeys do Neo-Futurist work, and we even share company members, associates, and alumni, including Ryan Walters, Kristie Koehler-Vuocolo, Jonathan Maestro, Brenda Arellano, Anthony Courser, and myself. All this to say, “Of course! It’s a joy!”
How did you choose the story The Neo-Futurists will be performing?
I chose the shortest story possible. Neo work is about brevity, and/or getting to the core idea/feeling of something. I also wanted to personally relate to the story, in some way. The one I picked is about building a thing, and failing. As a kid, the first memory I have of creating a story was about not having anything to write about. This made me interested in writing, thereafter joining a summer fiction workshop.
If the Neos had a “spcial sauce” what would be in it?
Something really obvious. Maybe that’s the wrong word. I mean to say, it wouldn’t be secretive. How about, blatant? Like cashews. But not gritty. A hint of cashew butter. Certainly garlic. Dill? Do people actually enjoy things with special sauces?
Now let’s get to know Bailiwick Chicago Theater…
(Pictured: Lili-Anne Brown, Bailiwick Chicago Theater Artistic Director)
Bailiwick Chicago is a non-profit professional company with a mission to produce contemporary musicals and plays, reinvent classic musicals, and develop new work, while sharing a powerful and authentic theatrical experience. They celebrate and engage our community through diverse programming, artistic partnerships and outreach opportunities.
Bailiwick Chicago is a theatre company that was formed by a group of dedicated actors, directors, and production professionals after Bailiwick Repertory Theater closed its doors in September 2009. This group, which we call the “Collective”, is the artistic ensemble responsible for the artistic mission and vision of the company. In its first 2 seasons, Bailiwick Chicago garnered 28 award nominations and received critical acclaim for its innovative Chicago productions.
Bailiwick Chicago has chosen the story “Thriller vs. Party Rock” by Antwon, Imani, Erick, Tyeler, Martabian, and Christopher from Learn Campbell Academy. We’re sure they’ll bring a special musical flair to the story!
Get tickets to be in the audience next Monday, November 11 to see what these two companies can do! 8 p.m. at the Neo-Futurarium, 5153 N. Ashland. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for kids.