COBBLER, by Ian August

Experiment #3: Does technology enhance intimacy, or inhibit? Our first full production as an ensemble explores technology both in terms of design and in terms of the tools we use to engage with one another.
COBBLER looks at the lives of two very close siblings, Peach and Cherry, as they begin to realize the ways in which their loving dynamics are no longer supporting them. Peach and Cherry explore the ways in which technological communications and connections enhance or decrease feelings of close connection. 
We also challenged our audience to participate in this show--to leave their microphones on, to engage in conversation in the chat of the call. In our post-show-talk-backs we heard repeatedly that it felt present, real, and incredibly intimate.
So does technology enhance or inhibit intimacy? We think that used well, and conscientiously, these technologies really can support and enhance true senses of closeness.

The Philosophy of Cavemen, by CL Byrd

Experiment #2: How does it look? The Eidophusikon; diegetic multi-performer music; and choreography in place of physical contact and intimacy.
The Philosophy of Cavemen was an experiment on the formal elements of the new digital theatre: how do we incorporate design, how do we imply the sense of space and excitement that is felt upon entering a theater before the show begins? We explored the ways in which our perceptions of social status, ability, and technology impact our quality of life. Is innovation for us, or are we for innovation?
A new play, The Philosophy of Cavemen is a thrilling stone-aged indictment of late-stage capitalism, productivity-oriented metrics of success, and access-based education. On June 20th we performed, once again, in the Zoom Room for 55-minutes of theatre followed by a short talk-back with the cast!
We're excited to share that since our production of The Philosophy of Cavemen, it was performed in a development reading at Cincinnati Lab Theatre--and according to CL Byrd, our production led to generative and creative growth of the script. We're so proud to have been a part of the process, CL!

Philoctetes, by Sophocles (tr. Ian Johnston)

Experiment #1: Is this thing on? Engaging with the camera; sharing props between scene partners; does theatre even work in this way?
On April 26th, 2020, we invited you to join us in our first experiment: can theatre find itself in the digital space? Working from quarantine, and collaborating across all 4 United States time zones (and GMT +3), we're excited to present for your participation PHILOCTETES, a site-specific digital performance of Sophocles' play. PHILOCTETES asks us: how do we engage with people with disease? What is the cost of acquiescing to the greater good? And can we ever forgive the scars of fear-based public policy?