WILLIAMSBURG — Aura CuriAtlas Physical Theatre and the Department of Theatre and Dance at William & Mary present “The Zombie Life: A Seminar for Humans Seeking Conversion” April 12 to 14 in Phi Beta Kappa Memorial Hall Studio Theatre.
Physical Theater is described by City Academy as a performance that prioritizes movement as the key storytelling medium over words or music. It may also incorporate techniques such as mime, gesture and modern dance to create performance pieces. While it isn’t unheard of for these kinds of performances to have no dialog, this performance will include text.
The premise of the performance is a self-help seminar presented by a therapist with a unique remedy for life’s hardships: becoming a zombie. His converted assistants provide testimonials, but as the seminar unfolds, they verge dangerously off script, posing the question, should we all convert? Or are there secrets to life that even this therapy can’t cure?
“The Zombie Life” is written by Chris Gavaler and directed by Joan Gavaler. Performers include Clifford Clark, Kevin Clauberg, Chasida Taylor, Ed Whitacre, and Allison White. After the seminar, there will be an opportunity for conversation with the cast and crew. The content of this show addresses a range of topics related to mental health.
Aura CuriAtlas, led by Artistic Director Gavaler, was founded in 2013 and is known for collaborative creation and inventive blending of forms including dance, theatre, and acrobatics. The company strives to keep the qualities of lightness (Aura), strength (Atlas), and play (Curiosity) at the center. Its use of physical storytelling is how Aura CuriAtlas works to create stories meaningful, engaging, and thought-provoking. The company has toured in the U. S. and internationally as well as presenting performances and workshops in digital spaces.
“The Zombie Life” is made possible by support from the Williamsburg Area Arts Commission, York County Arts Commission, William & Mary Department of Theatre and Dance, and the Sumner-Rand Foundation.
Performances are:
- Friday, April 12, 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, April 13, 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, April 14, 2 p.m.
The performance received support from the Sumner-Rand Foundation making tickets free this year.
For more information or to reserve tickets, visit the official Aura CuriAtlas website.
