Chicago‘s Neo-Futurists Announce Spring Writing and Performance Classes
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Chicago’s acclaimed Neo-Futurists are opening enrollment for their spring classes, offering aspiring performers the chance to hone their skills in the art of the “2-Minute Play.” Two distinct courses are available: an introductory level for newcomers and a Level Two class for those seeking to deepen their understanding of neo-Futurism. These immersive courses promise a transformative experience for anyone passionate about writing and performance.
Intro to Writing & performing the 2-Minute Play
For those new to the world of Neo-futurism, the “Intro to Writing & Performing the 2-Minute Play” course offers a complete introduction to the company’s unique performance style. This eight-week course, priced at $300, will be held on Mondays from March 17 to May 5, running from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Aspiring students should note that the final two classes, on April 28 and may 5, will be extended to four hours, concluding at 10:30 p.m.
the introductory course will be led by Neo Ensemble Member Annie Share and alum Tif Harrison, both seasoned performers and instructors. The course culminates in a class show on May 5 at 8:30 p.m.,providing students with a platform to showcase their newly acquired skills.
Annie Share brings a wealth of experience to the classroom, known for her dynamic stage presence and insightful approach to performance. Tif Harrison, an alum of the Neo-Futurists, offers a unique outlook, drawing on her past experiences with the company to guide students through the fundamentals of writing and performing short-form plays.
Enrollment for the introductory course is now open. Aspiring students can secure their spot through the provided online enrollment link.
Level Two: Writing & Performing the 2-Minute Play
Building upon the foundations established in the introductory course, “Level Two: Writing & Performing the 2-Minute Play” offers a deeper dive into the tenets of Neo-Futurism.This eight-week course, also priced at $300, will be held on Wednesdays from April 9 to May 28, running from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Similar to the introductory course,the final two classes,on May 21 and May 28,will be extended to four hours,ending at 10:30 p.m.
Neo Ensemble Members KR Riiber and Emma Casey will lead the Level Two course,guiding students through various play forms,workshopping and feedback sessions,ensemble growth exercises,and explorations of individual performance styles.Students will delve into movement, audience interaction, living newspaper techniques, and overall theatrical experimentation.
various play forms, workshopping and feedback, ensemble growth, and exploration of each student’s performance style. students will dig into movement, audience interaction, living newspaper, and overall fuckery.
KR Riiber is known for their innovative approach to performance and their ability to foster a collaborative learning environment. Emma Casey brings a unique perspective to the course, drawing on her experience in physical theater and ensemble-based performance.
The Level Two course also culminates in a public performance on May 28 at 8:30 p.m., allowing students to showcase their advanced skills and creative explorations.
Prerequisite: enrollment in the Level Two course is restricted to those who have successfully completed the “Intro to Writing & Performing the 2-Minute Play” course.
COVID-19 Safety Protocols
The neo-Futurists are committed to providing a safe and healthy learning environment for all students. To mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission, the following policies are in place:
- All students are required to wear masks while in the building.
- On the final day of class, when students perform for an audience, masks will not be required for students. Though, students will be required to get a COVID test within 48 hours of the performance.
- Students experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms are required to report them to Neo-Futurists administration and receive a negative COVID test before attending the next class.
For a comprehensive overview of the Neo-Futurists’ COVID-19 policies, please refer to the official policy document available on their website.
Unlocking the Power of the 2-Minute Play: An Interview with a Neo-Futurism Expert
“The 2-minute play isn’t just a short form; it’s a microcosm of theatrical innovation, capable of delivering profound impact with breathtaking brevity.”
World-Today-News.com Senior Editor (STE): Welcome! Chicago’s Neo-Futurists are renowned for their unique approach to performance.What makes their “2-Minute Play” format so compelling, and why is it experiencing a resurgence in popularity?
Neo-Futurism Expert (NFE): the Neo-Futurists’ 2-minute play format is compelling as it forces a distillation of theatrical ideas. Unlike longer plays which can meander, the 2-minute constraint demands precision, originality, and a potent emotional core. This brevity ensures the audience’s attention remains laser-focused, leaving a lasting impression. It’s resurgence reflects a growing appetite for concise, impactful storytelling in today’s fast-paced world. Audiences crave experiences that are potent and memorable, even if fleeting. This format allows for experimental storytelling techniques while remaining accessible.
STE: The article highlights two courses: an introductory course and a Level Two course. What are the key differences, and who should enroll in each?
NFE: The introductory course serves as the perfect entry point for aspiring performers and writers unfamiliar with the Neo-Futurism style. It’s a foundational course, covering the fundamentals of crafting and performing these short, impactful pieces.This course excels in building confidence and basic skills. Level Two, however, caters to students who have completed the introductory level, providing advanced techniques in theatrical experimentation. The difference is in depth and intensity of exploration. Level Two dives into elegant play structures, ensemble building, physical theater, and audience interaction. The ideal student for Level Two possesses a foundational grasp of the 2-minute play format and a desire for more advanced training.
STE: The Neo-Futurists emphasize collaboration and ensemble growth. How crucial are these elements to the success of a 2-minute play, and how do these classes cultivate such collaboration?
NFE: Collaboration is absolutely essential.The 2-minute play, in the Neo-Futurist style, isn’t a solo endeavor; it’s about the dynamic interplay between performers, the creative exchange, and the shared experience of building a collective performance. Think of collaborative theatre as a conversation, a continuous feedback loop of ideas, movements, and emotional resonance.The courses facilitate this through workshops,feedback sessions,and ensemble-based exercises designed to foster trust and encourage risk-taking. The class itself is a microcosm of the collaborative environment they seek to cultivate.
STE: What practical skills and techniques will students gain from participating in these courses that extend beyond the 2-minute play format?
NFE: The skills acquired extend far beyond the limitations of the 2-minute format. Participants will enhance their writing skills, developing concise, impactful narratives. They’ll master performance techniques, learning to connect with audiences in a short yet meaningful way, focusing on physicality and emotional resonance. Improvisational skills, honed through various exercises, are invaluable in any creative field. Beyond these, students learn valuable collaboration skills, time management, and efficient communication, all highly transferable skills.
STE: The article mentions specific instructors. What makes their expertise especially valuable in teaching aspiring Neo-Futurists?
NFE: The instructors bring diverse backgrounds and experience to the courses, offering a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives. This diversity allows for a multi-faceted approach to teaching the principles of the 2-minute play; allowing for a fuller and more versatile approach to mastering this form of theatrical expression.Experienced performers and instructors combine their stage presence and sharp insight to facilitate immersive and transformative learning experiences. look at instructors as seasoned guides navigating the nuanced world of concise theatrical storytelling.
STE: what advice would you give to someone considering enrolling in either course?
NFE: If you’re passionate about theatre, writing, or performance, and crave a transformative experience focused on concise storytelling, don’t hesitate. The Neo-futurists’ courses offer a unique opportunity to foster your creative voice and hone skills applicable across artistic domains; expanding your abilities and your creativity. Embrace the brief, embrace the experimental, embrace the Neo-Futurist way. Begin with the introductory course if you’re new to the form, or move on to Level Two after completing the foundations.
STE: Thank you for your insightful perspectives. Readers,what are your thoughts on the resurgence of short-form theatre? Share your comments below and engage with us on social media!