Synetic Theater- Arlington
Synetic Theater
Synetic’s 2010 performance of “King Arthur.”
“We’re very excited to build on Synetic’s momentum of the past 11 years and present four brand new, world premiere productions,” says the theater’s founder and artistic director Paata Tsikurishvili.
The recipient of 24 Helen Hayes Awards, the equivalent of the Tony Awards for the Washington, D.C., area, Synetic is known for its unique, physically demanding style that fuses drama, dance and acrobatics with innovative visuals. The theater is famous for its “Silent Shakespeare” productions in which the actor’s emotions and the plot are shown through non-traditional physical theater methods and non-stop action.
This season’s offerings include the world premiere of “Jekyll & Hyde.” “It’s perfect for Synetic because of its supernatural elements,” Tsikurishvili says, adding that he is taking a post-modern approach to a plotline that most people know. “This is the opportunity to do it wordless without text.”
Actor Alex Mills, a Synetic favorite, will perform the title role. “He has the ability to transform physically and emotionally,” Tsikurishvili says. “He can do anything with his body.”
Synetic’s production of “Trip to the Moon,” a 1902 French silent movie, will be a visual treat for the audience. The play follows the over-the-top adventures of six astronauts sent to the moon by way of a cannon.
“The Tempest,” the ninth installment in the theater’s ongoing “Silent Shakespeare” series boasts a stunning set design complete with a water extravaganza and acrobatics. Tsikurishvili is using 3-D projections from different projectors and angles to create abstract images. “We’ve never done that before,” he says. “I’m excited, but I’m also terrified.” SyneticTheater.org
More:
American Shakespeare Center (Staunton)
Virginia Opera (Norfolk & Richmond)
The Fairfax Symphony Orchestra
Wolftrap (Vienna)
Virginia Repertory Theatre (Richmond)
Virginia Stage Company (Norfolk)
Synetic Theater (Arlington)
Virginia Symphony Orchestra (Norfolk)
