"Forms of Fire", created by Andrei Codrescu, Lynnea Villanova, and Micah Ariel James, and directed and choreographed by Clove Galilee, is a powerful, multimedia theater experience that intertwines the lives of three people—a scientist, a music teacher, and a dancer—each grappling with the long shadows of personal and collective trauma. Through a fusion of scientific exploration and artistic expression, the play delves into the fragile human psyche, asking how and whether we can truly rewire our minds to overcome the past. Set against the backdrop of experimental neuromodulation, the characters’ journeys are mirrored in kinetic sculptures that evolve as metaphors for their fractured identities and disparate quests for healing. With a chorus of dancers embodying their internal struggles, "Forms of Fire" offers a poignant meditation on memory, resilience, and the transformative power of connection.
This staged reading offers a first glimpse into the evolving piece, with immersive and staging elements prototyped in real time. The audience is not only witness but participant in the experiment.
MEET THE CREATIVE TEAM
Co-Authors: Andrei Codrescu,Lynnea Villanova,Micah Ariel James
Dramaturg: Micah Ariel James
Director/Choreographer: Clove Galilee (Mabou Mines)
Music: Melvin Gibbs
Installation Art: Jingjing Lin
Scientific Advisors: Boris Gutkin
Lighting Design: Cat Tate Starmer
Sculptors:Rosa Elling; Lute Breuer
Sound Design: Dean Parker
CAST
Amanda - Meghann Reynolds
Edgar & Diego - Jack Pappas
Irene - Shauna Pinkett
Mila - Christianna Nelson
Sasha - Finley Rosser
Zeb - Felice Rosser
The Chorus- Nicola Bosco-Alvarez
Narration- Liz Colarte & Andrei Codrescu
Seating is limited; RSVP required to reserve your place.
This performance is presented by the Romanian Cultural Institute with additional support from TRICKSADDLE,The Rogovy Foundation,Mabou Mines, and Bowery Arts & Sciences Ltd. With additional support from LA MAMA.
