New Theatre Project Presents THE TEMPEST PROJECT, 5/11-27

Collaborative adaptations of classical work with an eclectic and thought-provoking twist, the work that The New Theatre Project has become known for, makes its return with The Tempest Project. This exciting production offers a never-before-seen look at Shakespeare's play. The brilliantly talented, four person cast has created this piece by ruminating on the essential questions of humanity in the play that include true stories from their own lives. Throughout the lengthy rehearsal process, the performers journal, create scene work, compose music, and eventually find a deeply personal connection to the original text.

The Tempest Project casts actors in only the four roles of Miranda, Caliban, Ariel, and Ferdinand, and it explores the central question, "What holds you captive?" Using inspiration from the original work, the piece also incorporates the performers' experiences surrounding this question. Audiences can expect a dynamic performance filled with original music, scenes that are often both moving and hilarious, and TNTP's signature welcoming atmosphere filled with food and fun.

Audiences are asked to reflect on and contribute their own responses to the idea of captivity. By entirely optional and anonymous submission, these stories could become part of the ever-evolving Project, changing nightly, until it reaches its final performance. Ultimately, the Project Plays seek to connect all audiences in an overtly personal and non-political way, illuminating the relevance of Shakespeare's centuries-old words in an entirely different way.

The cast features all current theater and musical theater students from the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University: Luna Alexander (Ann Arbor, Michigan), Jane Bruce (Ogden, Utah) Dan Tracy (Providence, Rhode Island) and Andrew Whipple (Mt. Pleasant, Michigan). The production is also entirely designed by the ensemble members under the direction of Artistic Director Keith Paul Medelis (Posing, The American Crowbar Case). The script is written in a collaborative adaptation by TNTP Playwright-in-Residence Jason Sebacher (Posing, The Everyman Project, The Spring Awakening Project). Tempest is stage managed by Emily Roll.

This Project Play features design elements including a stage covered entirely in dirt, an old-fashioned television set playing scenes from The Wizard of Oz, and, of course, a pool of water. You may get wet.

The Tempest Project will have two pay-what-you-can previews on Tuesday, May 8 and Wednesday, May 9 at 8 pm. Regular performances will take place on Fridays-Sundays at 8 pm from Friday, May 11 through Sunday, May 27. Tickets are just $15 and $10 for students/seniors/industry. TNTP accepts all major credits cards.

Reservations are strongly recommended for the often sold-out performances of the Project Plays. Please email tickets@thenewtheatreproject.org or call the box office at (734) 645-9776. For more information, go online at www.thenewtheatreproject.org. Performances take place at the Mix Studio Theater at 130 W. Michigan Ave. in Ypsilanti.

The New Theatre Project was founded in Ann Arbor in January 2010 with the mission to produce original work and reinventions of classical text for a modern audience. TNTP has grown into an ensemble of artists committed to producing high quality, professional theatre produced in collaborative and non-hierarchical ways and giving young artists professional work. Recently, the company has moved into the Mix Studio Theater, a storefront space in downtown Ypsilanti where they continue to produce new work in new ways with new artists. As part of Season 3: Reinvention, TNTP will strive for opportunities to strengthen the community of Ypsilanti and look for educational opportunities through the beauty of theatre and new work development.

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