09/2020 - 11/2020
Symptomatic: IRL
Director, Playwright, & Project Concept
Directorial Approach & Statement
Methodological Approach(es): Exploring the thematic elements of a) Theatre of Absurd and b) variations of Augusto Boal’s methodology of Forum Theatre and c) Viewpoints (adapted by Anne Bogart) relation to space and time.
Director's Statement
“How did it all begin?
I really can’t say…felt it creeping up in the back of my throat.
Felt like a virus but it wasn’t.
Felt like suppression but it was a revelation.”
Beyond the coronavirus itself lies a list of questions and contradictions, plus a kaleidoscope of emotions: denial, panic, disconnection - even, surprisingly, peace and hope. The main inspiration for creating Symptomatic IRL was the need to be creative in a time when not only were we physically in “quarantine” but feelings creatively stifled and isolated as well.
As a director, I believe the theatrical realm exists as a platform for artists to explore their own roots and spiritual life, as well as questions about morality and society. Symptomatic: IRL centers on the psychological dilemmas and chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic and national regulations. Using 6 performers to embody the wide variety of perspectives and points of view, this show intends to amplify the complex narrative, to enhance the absurd contradictions of COVID-19 and its diagnosis, treatments, and adverse effects on our social lives and livelihoods - from adhering to restrictions vs. not believing in or enforcing restrictions; conspiracy theories about COVID-19 as it pertains to race, gender, age, location, etc.; to contradictory information from “experts” and “news sources.”
Developed and devised over a 7-week virtual collaborative rehearsal period, the show was built from scratch - from just a directorial narrative-based outline. Theatre as an art form is formatted on the platform of personal, intimate interaction - it is a society within itself, a microcosm of society as a whole. We created our own society within our shared screens, and our private spaces became shared ones. We fought through the too-easy detachment, the audio lag, the buffering, the strange new technologies, the awful distance, to craft a visual, verbal, theatrical, cinematic work of art.
Nevertheless, we persisted and explored the full spectrum of symptoms and hysteria of COVID-19 IN REAL LIFE.
Professional Critique
Virginian Pilot
In upcoming ODU production about coronavirus stresses, art imitates life
Poulter, A.
Old Dominion University
COVID-19 Can’t Stop ODURep Theater Production of "Symptomatic: IRL"
Justice, K.
Audience Feedback
"I really enjoyed watching theater in a new unexpected light. I felt that the opening was very well captivating, yet confusing but it really made the play more interesting."
"I appreciate the intentionality of the technical difficulties. It almost lost me, but I think that is the point. I am appreciative of the work, because I have lived in most of these moments since March. I liked the dedication to authenticity and intentionality."
"Symptomatic was impressive and moving. The innovation shown by those involved is inspiring."
"I personally really enjoyed the show! Even though there were a few difficulties, it is hard to be able to give a live performance over the internet. It was riveting and something I can relate to. I especially enjoy the fact mental health was touched on since it is something that effects many people. Bravo!"
"It was extremely immersive and disorientating in a great way. It was able to really show all the different ways this virus has affected people mostly mentally, which is typically not what is shown in most productions. The interviews and the colored lighting monologues were also very moving."
