The Actors Gymnasium to Open the 19th Season with Circus in Progress
EVANSTON, IL - The Actors Gymnasium Artistic Director of Programming Larry DiStasi has announced the company's lineup for its 2013-2014 season. During 2013-2014, The Actors Gymnasium celebrates the organization's 19th season. The line up includes public performances of both narrative theatrical pieces, including the annual main stage Winter Circus, as well as variety act installations such as Circus in Progress and the Summer Circus Intensive Showcase.
The Actors Gymnasium opens its 2013-2014 season on October 12 with Circus in Progress: An Evening of Daring New Work. Each year, Chicago theatre and circus lovers of all ages delight in this popular sneak peek at some of Chicago's most exciting new works of circus art. This cabaret style performance series focuses on the development of new acts, showcasing many Chicagoland area circus and variety arts professionals as well as advanced students from The Actors Gymnasium's classes. Tickets are available now for the 4:30 matinee and the 7:30 evening performances. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12.50 for kids, students and seniors.
Further performer announcements will continue throughout fall through The Actors Gymnasium's social media, but the following acts are confirmed: Will Howard & Pam Davidson (adagio), Meredith "Tommy" Tomlins (juggling and aerial sling), Simone Lazar (lyra and contortion), Isaac Schoepp (diablo), The Actors Gymnasium Teen Ensemble (circus mash-up), Javen Ulambayar (aerial straps), Jill Heyser (trapeze).
PRODUCTION CALENDAR
Circus in Progress - An Evening of Daring New Work
Saturday, October 12, 2013
View the trailer here.
Get a sneak peek at some of Chicago's most exciting new works of circus art. This latest installation of our performance series focuses on the development of new acts. Professionals from the Chicagoland circus community will be featured as well as advanced students from The Actors Gymnasium's own classes. Two Performances Only.
A'Musing Myths: Fall Youth Circus
Written/Directed by Chris Mathews
Circus Choreography by Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi
Dance Choreography by Topeka Ellis
Assistant Directed by David Corlew
November 9, 10, 16, 17, 2013
A young girl who sacrifices love for the sake of the world. A fierce seamstress who dares flaunt her talents before the goddess of Arts & Crafts. That angry one with the snakes for hair. The gift of fire and the origin of man himself. Join us as Prometheus, our favorite Titan, recounts the origins of some of his favorite characters from mythic Greece. The Members of The Actors Gymnasium's Fall Youth Ensemble combine skills in circus, dance, clowning, and ensemble to delight us on adventures that span the heights of Mount Olympus, the depths of the Underworld, and every strange and imaginary place in between.
Winter Circus
Directed by Larry DiStasi
Featuring Dean Evans, "The Magical Exploding Boy"
February 15 - March 23, 2014
Previous Winter Circus productions include: Skooled: A Study in Circus ("a fascinating theatrical experiment...highly entertaining...Skooled crackles with energy" **Recommended** - The Chicago Reader), Lost & Found: A Recycled Circus ("This production will charm, warm and wow you...sly and nuanced clowning...wordless, impressive poetry" - Chicago Theatre Blog), and Science Fiction: An Experiment in Circus ("A funny and kinetic show the whole family can enjoy." - Evanston Roundtable)
Circus in Progress - An Evening of Daring New Work
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Get a sneak peek at some of Chicago's most exciting new works of circus art. This latest installation of our performance series focuses on the development of new acts. Professionals from the Chicagoland circus community will be featured as well as advanced students from The Actors Gymnasium's own classes. Two Performances Only.
Spring Youth Circus
May 31 - June 1, 2014
The Youth Circus is a performance-based training program that culminates in a fully-produced, original show. This intensive experience includes high-quality training in drama, dance and circus arts - not to mention personal and interpersonal skills that are invaluable. The Youth Circus is one of The Actors Gymnasium's most popular ticketed events each year.
Summer Circus and Performing Arts Camp Shows
Session One - July 2 & 3, 2013
Session Two - July 31 & August 1, 2014
Performances of the camp shows are intended for the participants and their families and have limited ticketing options.
Summer Circus Intensive Showcase
Saturday, July 26, 2014
The Actors Gymnasium Summer Circus Intensive is an innovative six-week intensive workshop for adults, dedicated to the development of high-level physical performance and circus skills. The workshop culminates in this exciting, collaborative final recital known as the Summer Circus Intensive Showcase Performance.
About Larry DiStasi, Artistic Director of Programming
Larry is Co-Artistic Director and Co-Founder of The Actors Gymnasium Circus and Performing Arts School as well as an ensemble member and founder of the Lookingglass Theatre Company. For Lookingglass, Larry has served as actor, director, administrator and designer over the past 25 years. He has performed in over 30 productions, among them the Tony Award winning production, Metamorphoses, and the Jeff Award winning productions Lookingglass Alice, The Arabian Nights and Hard Times. He directed and adapted The Baron in the Trees for which he received a Jeff Nomination in Adaptation. Larry directed The Actors Gymnasium circuses Dream, Science Fiction, Lost and Found, and Skooled. He has appeared on television and film and in a Philip Glass Opera called Galileo Galilei. He received his B.A. in Theatre from Northwestern University.
The Actors Gymnasium Theatre Information
The Actors Gymnasium venue is located at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes Street, Evanston, Illinois - just off of the Noyes purple line 'L' stop. There is limited metered parking in the Noyes Cultural Center Parking lot and other events in the building can make parking more difficult. Parking in the lot (permit & metered spots) is free after 6 pm Monday-Saturday. Parking is free on Sundays in the Noyes lot. There is additional free parking on Ridge Street and at the Civic Center and metered parking on Noyes Street.
Friday performances begin at 7:30 pm; Saturday matinee performances begin at 4:30 pm and evening performances begin at 7:30 pm; matinees on Sunday begin at 3:00 pm.
Tickets can be purchased at www.actorsgymnasium.org. For group reservations and general questions call 847-328-2795. The on-location box office opens 1.5 hours prior to the start of each performance.
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, and creatively.
The Actors Gymnasium Circus and Performing Arts School
Each year, The Actors Gymnasium's education programs reach over 3,000 students of all ages in the Evanston and Chicagoland area. To register for classes, call 847-328-2795, email email@actorsgymnasium.org, or visit www.actorsgymnasium.org/classes-camps/
The Actors Gymnasium Event Entertainment
The Actors Gymnasium serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities for our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. With over 18 years of experience providing premiere entertainment and instruction, The Actors Gymnasium has a variety of great options for any event.
To book a performer or instructor now, call 847-328-2795, email events@actorsgymnasium.org, or visit www.actorsgymnasium.org/event-entertainment/
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally and creatively.
The Actors Gymnasium Announces their New Executive Director
EVANSTON, IL - After an extensive nation-wide search, The Actors Gymnasium is pleased to announce that Virginia Nugent has joined The Actors Gymnasium staff as the organization's new Executive Director.
"We're thrilled to have found someone with the scope and breadth of knowledge of theatre and the not-for-profit world that Virginia brings to the table " says Co-Artistic Director Larry DiStasi.
Virginia is an arts and culture specialist with 25 years experience and was most recently engaged as Interim Managing Director and Development Director for Chicago Dramatists. She brings a deep understanding of show business from her background in technical production and general arts management.
Virginia literally "grew up" in theatre in her native Australia, napping in the dressing room and running lines over the kitchen table, which led to a professional production career primarily in musical theatre and opera. Highlights include the Australian premiere of Phantom of the Opera, and production managing Australia's first ever fully-staged Ring Cycle. Since moving to the U.S. in 1999, Virginia has also worked with Pittsburgh Opera, History Theatre, Grace Minnesota/Wishes for the Sky, Minnesota Dance Theatre & the Dance Institute, and the Jazz Institute of Chicago.
In addition to delivering results for a spectrum of arts organizations, Virginia's community engagement includes chairing multi-disciplinary committees for the City of St. Paul, representing a local research site to report out at the national Performing Arts Research Coalition, developing the Twin Cities' theatre awards, serving on the Rotary Club of St. Paul board of directors, reviewing grants for state and local government agencies, and facilitating Strategic Planning for volunteer service clubs.
Virginia starts at The Actors Gymnasium on September 3rd and her first month will focus on getting to know the staff, instructors, board and other key members of The Actors Gymnasium's community. Parents and Students interested in introducing themselves to Virginia will have an opportunity to do so at various Meet 'n' Greet sessions, tentatively scheduled for October.
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally and creatively.
ACTORS GYMNASIUM GALA RAISES $12,000 FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
EVANSTON, IL - The Actors Gymnasium held it's annual fundraising Benefit Gala on July 20 at the Unitarian Church of Evanston. Over one hundred fifty supporters came out to enjoy circus aerial acts, contortionists, and acrobats, raising over $12,000 in scholarships for Circus classes. The event was emceed by Actors Gym headliner Lindsey Noel Whiting and Lookingglass ensemble member David Catlin, and over 30 local Evanston businesses donated food and items for the silent auction.
"The Actors Gymnasium believes that diversity and accessibility to all of Evanston is important. It is because of this belief that the evening was so successful. The funds raised at the Gala will help more students become a part of the circus family we have here at the gym." says Tracy Aiden, Gala benefit Chair.
The Actors Gymnasium is a recipient of the 2009 Evanston Mayor's Award for the Arts. It serves over 3,000 students per year, and puts on six sold out productions annually.
The 2013 Shipwrecked Gala Committee with Artistic Co-Directors
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally and creatively.
Actors Gymnasium Offers Unique Classes for Back to School
EVANSTON, IL- The Actors Gymnasium Circus & Performing Arts School resumes its full selection of class listings for Fall session on September 3. Classes include unique offerings in subjects such as Aerial Arts, Circus Fitness, Drama and Physical Theatre,Parent-Tot Circus, Parent-Tot Gymnastics, and Parkour.
Fall session also offers the first class in the Single Weapon Certification series, Unarmed Combat. This class will be taught by Chuck Choyl, President of the Society of American Fight Directors and concludes with a skills proficiency test that awards a certificate from SAFD if passed.
A Circus Arts class has been added on Thursday afternoons at 12:30pm for professional actors and others with night-time careers seeking exciting new skills.
The new session of classes in Circus and Performing Arts begins September 3 and runs through November 10, 2013. No classes on Labor Day. Further course offerings for kids and adults of all ages and skill levels include Act Up & Dance, Aerial Arts, Circus Arts, Contortion, Gymnastics, Imaginastics, and Tumbling.
Registration for all Fall classes is now open at www.actorsgymnasium.org. Classes fill quickly and limited space is available.
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, and creatively.
The Actors Gymnasium Introduces its Newly Redesigned Website
EVANSTON, IL - Thanks to a grant from the Arts Work Fund for Organizational Development, The Actors Gymnasium has announced the release of their redesigned website.
Created by the Wolko Design Group, the new look was crafted to improve customer satisfaction with a user-friendly navigation that reflects the communities needs, including up-to-date information on classes, camps, shows, and event entertainment talent.
The new home page is now a multi-functional hub that welcomes new visitors to learn more about the non-profit and provides efficient service to veterans of The Actors Gymnasium's offerings.
The website was created to attract visitors of varying knowledge of The Actors Gymnasium and the Chicago circus community in mind, and has created more content for returning visitors to enjoy.
New Features include:
A large slideshow featured on the home page highlighting imagery of performers bending and twisting on circus apparatus
A social media interface that allows non facebook and twitter users to follow The Actors Gymnasium's postings and stay up to date with its fast-paced community
New photo and video galleries for Event Entertainment, Shows, Classes and Teen Ensemble for visitors perusal
Scholarship, newsletters, benefit and past donation information for prospective donors
Returning users will find information on auditions, performance dates, camp registration announcements, extended photo galleries, images of students and performers, and more pages as The Actors Gymnasium continues to streamline and expand visitor's interactions to continue its growth within the Evanston and Chicagoland circus and performing art communities.
Interested parties can view the newly redesigned site here: www.actorsgymnasium.org
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally and creatively.
The Actors Gymnasium Presents Summer Circus Intensive Showcase Performance
EVANSTON, IL - The Actors Gymnasium prides itself on providing high quality circus and performing arts instruction. As part of that mission, we offer an innovative, six-week, intensive workshop for adults dedicated to the development of high-level physical performance and circus skills. The Summer Intensive Workshop culminates in the creation of an exciting, collaborative final performance.This one day only event performs on July 27, 2013 with shows at 4:30 & 7:30 pm.
This year's instructors include Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi, David Catlin, Dean Evans, Oyuna Yadamjav and Joey Stone. The culminating Summer Circus Intensive Showcase Performance is open to all ages.
Tickets can be purchased through event's facebook page or through www.actorsgymnasium.com. There are a limited number of tickets available for each performance and tickets are first come, first served. Check early for the best selection. Tickets are available online only. After online sales are closed, the on location box office will be open 2 hours prior to the show start time.
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
The Actors Gymnasium Summer Benefit Gala Shipwrecked! to Raise Funds for Scholarships on July 20
EVANSTON, IL - The Actors Gymnasium has announced its Summer Benefit Gala Shipwrecked! The 2013 gala, hosted by The Actors Gymnasium Board, features the emcee talents of Lindsey Noel Whiting, star of the runaway hit, Skooled: a Study in Circus, and David Catlin, Lookingglass ensemble member and director of the critically-acclaimed production, Lookingglass Alice.
The gala is designed to benefit the long running circus and performing arts school, The Actors Gymnasium, and help make scholarships possible for aspiring young circus artists. Last year's financial aid fund helped provide over 100 scholarships to students who otherwise may not have been able to attend The Actors Gymnasium's classes and camps. The Shipwrecked! gala takes place at 7:00 PM on Saturday, July 20, 2013 at the Unitarian Church of Evanston, 1330 Ridge Avenue.
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
Each year's benefit has a theme and this year's theme of Shipwrecked! calls on attendees to "Come to the rescue!" and offers the chance to "mingle with the crew and passengers of The Actors Gymnasium community!"
Admission includes alcoholic Scurvy Punch, tasty island fare, live circus arts throughout the night, a special activity area just for kids, amazing auction items for all ages, and fun for the whole family.
Early Bird Discount: $50/person or $150/family (At the door price is $65 per person/$165 per family. Family price applies to 3 or more people living in the same household.)
Tickets, priced at the early bird discount can be purchased online. $65 per person/&165 per family can be purchased at the door. For tickets or more information on how to donate, visit www.actorsgymnasium.com. Ticket price includes food, soft drinks, alcohol and entertainment. For more information, please call (847)328-2795.
Community members who wish to help out in other ways beside attendance can donate items to the auction such as travel miles, summer homes, gift items, hosting wine tasting or event parties. If interested, they should contact Jennifer Breen jennifer.breen@yahoo.com or Linda Slavik thannah6@yahoo.com
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
The Actors Gymnasium Summer Benefit Gala Shipwrecked! to Raise Funds for Scholarships on July 20
EVANSTON, IL - The Actors Gymnasium has announced its Summer Benefit Gala Shipwrecked! The 2013 gala, hosted by The Actors Gymnasium Board, features the emcee talents of Lindsey Noel Whiting, star of the runaway hit, Skooled: a Study in Circus, and David Catlin, Lookingglass ensemble member and director of the critically-acclaimed production, Lookingglass Alice.
The gala is designed to benefit the long running circus and performing arts school, The Actors Gymnasium, and help make scholarships possible for aspiring young circus artists. Last year's financial aid fund helped provide over 100 scholarships to students who otherwise may not have been able to attend The Actors Gymnasium's classes and camps. The Shipwrecked! gala takes place at 7:00 PM on Saturday, July 20, 2013 at the Unitarian Church of Evanston, 1330 Ridge Avenue.
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
Each year's benefit has a theme and this year's theme of Shipwrecked! calls on attendees to "Come to the rescue!" and offers the chance to "mingle with the crew and passengers of The Actors Gymnasium community!"
Admission includes alcoholic Scurvy Punch, tasty island fare, live circus arts throughout the night, a special activity area just for kids, amazing auction items for all ages, and fun for the whole family.
Early Bird Discount: $50/person or $150/family (At the door price is $65 per person/$165 per family. Family price applies to 3 or more people living in the same household.)
Tickets, priced at the early bird discount can be purchased online. $65 per person/&165 per family can be purchased at the door. For tickets or more information on how to donate, visit www.actorsgymnasium.com. Ticket price includes food, soft drinks, alcohol and entertainment. For more information, please call (847)328-2795.
Community members who wish to help out in other ways beside attendance can donate items to the auction such as travel miles, summer homes, gift items, hosting wine tasting or event parties. If interested, they should contact Jennifer Breen jennifer.breen@yahoo.com or Linda Slavik thannah6@yahoo.com
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
Actors Gym Offers Most Popular Classes for Summer Session
EVANSTON, IL- The Actors Gymnasium School for Circus & Performing Arts has released class listings for Summer Session, which will include the most popular offerings in Circus, Aerial Arts and Gymnastics, alongside our perennially popular summer camp.
Summer session also offers the once-a-year, six-week intensive workshop for adults, dedicated to physical performance and act creation. Master teachers include David Catlin, Joey Stone, Oyunchimeg "Oyuna" Yadamjav and Sylvia Hernandez-Distasi. Fall session will mark the return to normal scheduling and the full catalog of classes.
The new session of classes in Circus and Performing Arts begins June 17 and runs through August 10, 2013. No classes on July 4th. Course offerings for kids and adults of all ages and skill levels include Aerial Arts, Circus Arts, Contortion, Gymnastics, Imaginastics, and Summer Intensive Workshop.
Registration for all Summer classes is now open at www.actorsgymnasium.com. Classes fill quickly and limited space is available.
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
The Actors Gymnasium Announces Circus in Progress Performers
EVANSTON, IL - The Actors Gymnasium announces performance acts for its May 18th show, Circus in Progress: An Evening of Daring New Work.
Chicago theatre and circus lovers of all ages delight in this popular sneak peek at some of Chicago's most exciting new works of circus art. This cabaret style performance series focuses on the development of new acts, showcasing many Chicagoland area circus and variety arts professionals as well as advanced students from The Actors Gymnasium's classes.
Further performer announcements will continue throughout May through the company's social media, but the following acts are confirmed: Dean Evans (solo clown), Anna Hartje (contortion), Jill Heyser (trapeze), Willem McGowan (diabolo juggling), Rackim Ramsey (lyra), The Actors Gymnasium Intermediate Aerial Class (rope & harness w/ silks), The Actors Gymnasium Teen Ensemble (silks w/ straps), Vox 3 (acapella choral song), Andi Wywiorski (lyra), Aerial Dance Chicago (sling), Kevin Brown and Jason Hanggi of Be The Groove (percussion).
Tickets can be purchased through event's facebook page or through www.actorsgymnasium.com. There are a limited number of tickets available for each performance and tickets are first come, first served. Check early for the best selection. Tickets are available online only. Once online sales are closed, 1.5 hours prior to the show start time, the on location box office will be open. For group reservations and general questions call 847-328-2795.
Two Performances Only! This one day only event performs on May 18, 2013 with shows at 4:30 & 7:30 pm.
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
INDONESIAN CIRCUS STUDENT TRAVELS TO UNITED STATES AND CANADA FOR A UNIQUE LEARNING OPPORTUNITY
EVANSTON, IL - This week, The Actors Gymnasium's master circus teacher, Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi, welcomed Wawan Kuriawan, a circus student from Cilincing, an impoverished fishing village in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Kuriawan's four month tour of various circus schools, sponsored by The Red Nose Foundation, includes local organizations such as The Actors Gymnasium, who have volunteered their time and services to help Kuriawan achieve a higher level in circus skills and self-confidence. The Red Nose Foundation, a non-profit organization, uses social circus as a tool to engage with at-risk children and youth.
In Cilincing, families live on a few dollars a day in poor living conditions, which often force children to work rather than finish school.
This learning opportunity provides Kuriawan with a new set of circus skills which, upon his return to Jakarta, Indonesia, he can share with his fellow students at the Red Nose Foundation and actively contribute to the development of social circus within his own community.
Until May 5: Circus Mojo in Ludlow, Kentucky, with Paul Miller
May 6 - May 12: Kuriawan traveled to Chicago to train with Wolfgang Bientzle from CirqueExperiences, an 8-time world champion in wheel acrobats, in preparation for the 10th Wheel Gymnastics World Championships in July. Kuriawan will be the first Indonesian ever to take part in this international competition.
May 12-June 9: Circus Mojo in Ludlow, Kentucky, with Paul Miller
June 10 - July 14: Kuriawan returns to Chicago for classes at The Actors Gymnasium, MSA & Circus Arts, and CirquesExperience, and to compete at Wheel2013.
July 15 - August 3: Vancouver Circus School (VCS) with Travis Johnson
August 4 - August 16: Circus Smirkus in Vermont.
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
About the Red Nose Foundation
The Red Nose Foundation (Yayasan Hidung Merah) is a non-profit arts and education organization active in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Foundation works at the grass roots level and supports the development of children living in underprivileged circumstances through basic education and circus arts.
The Red Nose Foundation, established in 2008, has five pillar programs:
The Arts and Education Outreach Program, the foundation's flagship program with centers in Cilincing and Bintaro-Lama;
The Hidung Merah Performance Troupe, made up of the most advanced RNF students;
Sponsorship and Scholarship Program, connecting sponsors with individual children to help fund their education;
School Renovation program, helping to rebuild public school facilities with the support of corporate sponsors;
Red Nose Relief, a performance group that travels to conflict or disaster-affected areas in Indonesia to provide "emotional relief" to children and families.
About Social Circus
Circus is multidisciplinary and offers something for everyone regardless of experience, physical ability, age, culture, language, and socio-economic status. There are no limits to who can benefit from circus arts and social circus.
Social circus uses physical arts to engage with at-risk youth and marginalized communities, but its effect and benefits stretch far beyond that and run deep into the field of personal development. Social circus teaches self-awareness, self-esteem, discipline, creativity, artistic talent, motor skills and physical fitness, teamwork and social skills.
Ultimately, circus is a fun and versatile tool that contributes positively to an individual and community's wellbeing and quality of life.
Dan Roberts, Founder and Executive Director
Dan Roberts established the Red Nose Foundation in 2008. Dan moved to Jakarta, Indonesia, with his family from the United States as a teenager and was a student at the Jakarta International School. Upon returning to the U.S., Dan studied Acting at Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts. After he discovered Circus and Physical Theatre, Dan spent a number of years working for different youth circus groups. In 2008, Dan became a volunteer for Clowns without Borders-USA and organized a 10-week solo circus expedition through Indonesia. During this expedition Dan made the decision to stay and establish the Red Nose Foundation. Since then, Dan has been the driving force behind RNF and continues to build the foundation and its programs and extend its reach in the villages in Jakarta.
Wawan Kuriawan training with The Actors Gymnasium master instructor Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi
The Actors Gymnasium Presents Spring Circus in Progress
EVANSTON, IL - Due to continued popularity, The Actors Gymnasium presents the eighth installment of the popular performance series, Circus in Progress: An Evening of Daring New Work. Chicago theatre and circus lovers of all ages delight in this sneak peek at some of Chicago's most exciting new works of circus art. This cabaret style performance series focuses on the development of new acts, showcasing many Chicagoland area circus and variety arts professionals as well as advanced students from The Actors Gymnasium's classes. Specific performer announcements will be made by The Actors Gymnasium throughout April and early May.
Tickets can be purchased through event's facebook page or through www.actorsgymnasium.com. There are a limited number of tickets available for each performance and tickets are first come, first served. Check early for the best selection. Tickets are available online only. After online sales are closed, the on location box office will be open 2 hours prior to the show start time.
Two Performances Only! This one day only event performs on May 18, 2013 with shows at 4:30 & 7:30 pm.
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
Skooled: A Study in Circus Joins Chicago Theatre Week
EVANSTON, IL - The Actors Gymnasium joins more than 75 of Chicago's finest theatres, taking part in the first ever Chicago Theatre Week. Chicago Theatre Week is presented by The League of Chicago Theatres and Choose Chicago whose past projects include the hugely successful Restaurant Week.
As part of the inaugural celebration of Chicago's theatre scene, The Actors Gymnasium will offer discounted tickets to the opening weekend of Skooled: A Study in Circus, the latest production in its winter circus series.
Chicago theatre and circus lovers of all ages will delight in this spectacular that takes audiences on a journey of eccentric clowning, aerial acrobatics, live music, and devilish pranks.
Featuring the work of Chicago clown Dean Evans, Co-Artistic Directors Larry DiStasi, Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi and an amazing team of designers and performers, this circus production explores the school of hard knocks. Life's lessons come in many forms. And some people always end up in detention.
For opening weekend only, locals and tourists can purchase tickets at a special Chicago Theatre Week discount of only $15. Ticket prices for all Chicago Theatre Week performances are so low that theatre fanatics could see two shows for the price of one. Fellow participants include: Lookinnglass Theatre Company, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Northlight Theatre, Goodman Theatre and Metropolis Performing Arts Centre.
Tickets can be purchased through the Chicago Theatre Week website or through the www.actorsgymnasium.com by using the discount code: THWEEK There are a limited number of tickets available for each performance and tickets are first come, first served. Check early for the best selection.
Performances run February 16 - March 23, with shows at 7:30 pm on Fridays, 4:30 and 7:30 pm on Saturdays and 3:00 pm on Sundays (No 4:30 show on 2/16).
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
Skooled: A Study in Circus at The Actors Gym
EVANSTON, IL - The Actors Gymnasium presents Skooled: A Study in Circus. This year's winter circus spectacular takes audiences on a journey of eccentric clowning, aerial acrobatics, live music, and devilish pranks.
Featuring the work of Chicago clown Dean Evans, Co-Artistic Directors Larry DiStasi, Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi and an amazing team of designers and performers, this circus production explores the school of hard knocks. Life's lessons come in many forms. And some people always end up in detention.
Performances run February 16 - March 23, with shows at 7:30 pm on Fridays, 4:30 and 7:30 pm on Saturdays and 3:00 pm on Sundays (No 4:30 show on 2/16). Ticket prices range from $15-20. Tickets can be purchased online through www.actorsgymnasium.com or by calling the office at 847-328-2795. Please call the office for group ticket pricing and availability.
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
Actors Gym Offers New Opportunities for Song & Dance
EVANSTON, IL- This winter, The Actors Gymnasium School for Circus & Performing Arts will expand its class listings to include new offerings in Music, Drama and Dance. Veteran Actors Gymnasium teacher Kara Karstedt and Artistic Director of Programming Larry DiStasi developed these three new offerings together and are excited to expand the courses available to children ages 3 to 18. Descriptions for the three classes are as follows:
Acting the Song Offers kids a chance to really delve into the "acting" of a song. Students will look at the rise and fall of the pieces and use character work to express the emotions of the music. The result of the class is to build their acting skills and to walk away with a repertoire of songs usable for auditions.
Act Up and Dance Students go on "jungle safaris", dance with ribbons, dress up and act out different children's stories, create animal orchestras, and explore moving through the space in different ways. Imaginations and bodies are both exercised in this class.
Musical Theatre Mash-Up In the style of Glee, students will take music from two different musicals and "mash' them together, creating a whole new story, complete with singing and dancing. This process is completely collaborative and will result in a performance for parents on the last day of class. A new session of classes in Circus and Performing Arts begins January 28 and runs through April 7, 2013. No classes on January 21 or March 25-31. Course offerings for kids and adults of all ages and skill levels include Aerial Arts, Circus Arts, Contortion, Gymnastics, Drama, and much more.
Open registration for all Winter II classes starts January 16 at noon at www.actorsgymnasium.com. Classes fill quickly and limited space is available.
About The Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium is dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre. Encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium teaches circus arts, physical theatre and multi-disciplinary performance to children and adults; produces original, daring works of circus-theatre; and serves as a talent resource, providing performance opportunities to our students and innovative professional event entertainment for a wider audience. At The Actors Gymnasium, people Learn To Fly - physically, emotionally, intellectually and creatively.
