The Connection
The Connection
By Jack Gelber
Adapted by Gavin Reub
2011
The Little Theater
Seattle, WA
Designers
Set: Cameron Irwin
Lights: Evan Anderson
Composer: Raymond Larson
Costume: Caitlin Rich
This new adaptation of the 1957 play by Jack Gelber combined live jazz music and dialogue with popular and alternative culture in the search for a new theatrical experience. Seen through the lens of a live reality TV show, The Connection asks what we will do in the search for artistic inspiration and mental fulfillment, while exploring the toll it takes on our bodies and lives. The world spins into chaos, art, beauty, and frenzy, as music, text and design combine to build toward the show's conclusion. The play was first produced in 1960 by the Living Theatre, directed by co-founder Judith Malina and designed by co-founder Julian Beck, and won 3 Obies--Best New Play, Best All-Around Production, and Best Actor.
"Mr. Reub's sense of theatrical imagery is strong. Evan Anderson's stark lighting design in the central portal image where the junkies re-enter after their "salvation" is absolutely brilliant. The scene between Leach and Ellie talking about Leach's boil is effectively disgusting. Josh Ryder's portrayal of Cowboy is excellent and DeSean Halley makes an effective Sam." - The Seattlest
By Jack Gelber
Adapted by Gavin Reub
2011
The Little Theater
Seattle, WA
Designers
Set: Cameron Irwin
Lights: Evan Anderson
Composer: Raymond Larson
Costume: Caitlin Rich
This new adaptation of the 1957 play by Jack Gelber combined live jazz music and dialogue with popular and alternative culture in the search for a new theatrical experience. Seen through the lens of a live reality TV show, The Connection asks what we will do in the search for artistic inspiration and mental fulfillment, while exploring the toll it takes on our bodies and lives. The world spins into chaos, art, beauty, and frenzy, as music, text and design combine to build toward the show's conclusion. The play was first produced in 1960 by the Living Theatre, directed by co-founder Judith Malina and designed by co-founder Julian Beck, and won 3 Obies--Best New Play, Best All-Around Production, and Best Actor.
"Mr. Reub's sense of theatrical imagery is strong. Evan Anderson's stark lighting design in the central portal image where the junkies re-enter after their "salvation" is absolutely brilliant. The scene between Leach and Ellie talking about Leach's boil is effectively disgusting. Josh Ryder's portrayal of Cowboy is excellent and DeSean Halley makes an effective Sam." - The Seattlest