ARTS & CULTURE
And the Curtain Rises…(finally) PHOTO/ STEVEN LE THEEPHOTONINJA.COM
FreeFall Theatre came up with an ambitious drive-in theater concept for their “War of the Worlds” musical production which was staged facing the parking lot. The run, through December 6, is selling out most of the 30 parking spaces for each performance.
Fall traditionally marks the opening of most performing arts seasons, and as it applies to theater in St. Pete, you can’t, as they say, keep good men and women down. BY CINDY STOVALL No doubt we have seen amazing levels of innovation during our collective COVID journey. Many arts related programs and businesses have found clever ways to harness the power of the interwebs in order to stay visible and afloat. In the case of live staged performances, however, it’s been a different story. Though online readings and other offerings have been put forward, the live theater experience with its (exquisitely) close quarters and enclosed spaces has remained, for the most part, in a holding pattern. But lately, with an infusion of innovation, plenty of determination and a redirection of the creative spirit, the ghost lights dim just a bit and the footlights are going up. Here’s a look at what we can look forward to this season. A Season (Literally) Reimagined What could be more on the nose than a theater season titled Reimagine? American Stage has a habit of nailing a concept, and long before any global pandemic. “Our 2020-2021 season, Reimagine embraces this time of transition
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and change within our world and within our artform,” said Producing Artistic Director Stephanie Gularte. “ It was essential that we craft a season that allows us to remain connected to the community at a time when we all need the meaningful human connection that powerful storytelling can provide, while at the same time, preparing for ongoing flexibility in an evolving public health landscape.” Considering real world circumstances, American Stage’s season is especially ambitious and full of hope with “more powerful stories than ever before.” Here’s what you can expect in a hybrid (virtual and live) season designed to include all: A Digital Theatre Series is solely for digital access. This series includes three plays in three months to open the season. At time of press, Letters to Kamala is nearing end of run. Two additional offerings for November and December include Kate – The Unexamined Life of Katherine Hepburn and Nosotros La Gente (We the People).
