How is man different from monkey? How does our community shape our actions? How do we respond to oppression? These are some of the questions Georg Büchner tackles in his episodic tale of a humiliated soldier’s descent into darkness. The unfinished manuscript for Woyzeck, which was discovered shortly after Büchner’s death in 1837, has become a rite of passage for many experimental theatre directors, and so it is for us. Woyzeck serves as an ideal jumping off point to create the kind of theatre we are drawn to: broad physicality, a variety of stylistic elements, strong ensemble work, live music, and a compelling story.
We began with a great deal of physical experimentation, working to find a common theatrical voice as an ensemble, and then gradually layered in the text. When Ryan Sollee came on board, the music took on a significant role in the play. The relationship between text, movement, and music, combined with the energy and imagination of the ensemble, forms the basis of the show.
Translated by Nicholas Babson
Directed by Ben Roberts and Mark Hayes
Original music written and arranged by Ryan Sollee
Performed by Nicholas Babson, Zoee Garza, Jake Hueni, Kaician Jade Kitko, Kristopher Mahoney-Watson, Blake Mitchell, Molly Parker, Kristin Rowan, Anneke Wisner, and Anna Zimmerman
Costumes and stage management by Breanne Thornton
Props, masks, scenery, and lighting by Mark Hayes
Master Electrician Dug Martell
Thank You Karin Magaldi, Micah Loiselle, Bob Parsons, Josh Spencer, Cristina Cano, Paul Seely, Joel Andrew, Katelyn Redinger, Prairie Carrie Cletas Emrich, Mizu Desierto, Rich Wattenberg, Devon Allen
This show is dedicated to the memory of Carolyn Holzman
