The Possibilities of What is to Come–a review of “Some Assembly Required: At Home”
‘Burgh Vivant - Attack Theatre’s “Some Assembly Required” was first commissioned by the Carnegie Museum of Art in 1996. It’s being brought back to celebrate the company’s thirtieth anniversary. Congratulations to the founders of Attack Theatre, Michele de la Reza and Peter Kope, on thirty successful years. This signature Attack Theatre experience is described as, “part performance, part conversation and entirely alive.” It is every bit as intriguing as it sounds!
Be sure to arrive early to enjoy the art pieces in the studio. All of them are a part of the Persad Center’s “Art for Change” collection and are offered for sale to benefit the Center’s mission.
Another distinct advantage of an early arrival is the opportunity to enjoy watching the dancers’ graceful stretches and warm-ups.
The audience is treated to brief demonstrations of several different dance sequences–some of which have amusing names, “Arm Swing Fish,” for one.
De la Reza cordially invites the audience to voice their thoughts and observations about an abstract art piece. Several people, including a young teenage girl, enthusiastically shared their ideas. Those descriptions are all notated by Kope to later be incorporated into creating a new piece of art. The descriptors on this particular day ranged from industrial to bristly and velvety soft and comforting.
Cello Fury cellist, Simon Cummings, brilliantly plays the cello to illustrate music’s ability to create moods and evoke emotions.
An amusing demonstration of improvisational, interpretive dance creates a shape-shifting room, one whose identity and function are clearly identifiable.
These activities set the scene for creating new art. Interpretive dance, music, and observations about the painting all combine to devise a unique new work. The latest work is determined by audience input, ensuring that each of the works is fresh and different from previous ones.
De la Reza suggests people, “Take the time to sit with art and see where it takes you.” That sound advice can be explored at the upcoming (October 16) “Some Assembly Required: Contemporary Craft”, featuring the work of nineteen artists exploring the expressive and technical possibilities of wood.
An exciting opportunity to explore a collaborative, immersive art-making journey awaits you.
LTL
Attack Theatre, October 16, “Some Assembly Required: Contemporary Craft, 5645 Butler Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15201.