Rooting a Deeper Connection – Allerton Artist-in-Residence

The Sangamon River - derived its name from the Potawatomi word Sain-guee-mon  meaning literally 'where there is plenty to eat’) In partnership with the University of Illinois Office of the Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (OVCDEI) and with support from Joan and Peter Hood, the Spring 2022 residency highlights and celebrates the arts and study of nature within Black and Latinx communities. By focusing on artistic and environmental innovation within the Black and Latinx communities, Allerton intends to connect more…

Sweat

Photo credits: Darrell Hoemann SWEAT by Lynn Nottage Illinois Theatre Krannert Center for the Performing Arts Studio Theatre April 15 - 23, 2022 Review - Smile Politely Filled with warm humor and tremendous heart, Sweat tells the story of a group of friends who have spent their lives sharing drinks, secrets, and laughs while working together on the factory floor. But when layoffs and picket lines begin to chip away at their trust, the friends find themselves pitted against each…

The Tempest

Smile Politely Review Co-directed by Latrelle Bright and Misty Martin Assistant Directors - Kashara Bennett and Maci Mitchell Stage Manager - Brian Hagy Scenic Design - Mike O'Brien Lighting Design - Nick Shaw Sound Design - Jodie Werner Props - Mary Welle and Phil Strang Poster Design - Alan Pacaro CAST: Master/Juno/Ensemble - Aaron Clark Boatswain/Ceres/Ensemble - Jace Jamison Mariner/Iris/Ensemble - Tony Curtis Alonso - Aaron Miller Gonzalo - John Tilford Sebastian - Law Welle Antonio - Kevin Wickhart Ferdinand…

Feeding the Dragon

"Deep in the bowels of a New York Public Library lies a dragon: the monstrous coal furnace that Sharon's father, the live-in custodian, must feed every night. A moving examination of family secrets, forgiveness, and the power of language, Feeding the Dragon explores Sharon's life growing up in the library and the fire she never allowed to fade."

Human Resources

I had a delightful time with Chynna Miller and Celina Trujillo directing this 10-minute play by Cris Eli Blak! Here's hoping for more collaboration with Coalescence Theatre Project.

Puppets!

Sandglass Puppet Theatre sent me a photo peek at the table-top puppets I commissioned.  I am so excited to see what stories they will tell in our community!  Stay tuned for workshops!! Above was the message I posted in February of 2020.  Below are photos from a couple of gatherings in the last few weeks.  We're looking forward to the stories these puppets are going to tell. August 29, 2021 VIDEO: Jumping for Joy Ash Goodly, Smith Vishveshwara, Melissa Goldman,…