Desert Foothills group conducts theater workshop

STAFF REPORT ~ 5/25/2011

For more than 30 years the Desert Foothills Community Education has been home to the Summer Arts Institute’s Comprehensive Theater Arts Experience with C. Nicholas Johnson.
Participants, ranging from second grade through adults, will substantively assist in the development and production of an original work of multi-media theater.
The , set for 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., June 1 - 18 caters to young actors, dancers, vocalists, filmmakers, directors, musicians or costume, set and make-up designer.
“Students will be involved in creating costumes, props and sets, as well as honing their performance skills,” according to Renee Swan at the Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center, where The Experience is held and performances take place on the Main Stage. “Nick anticipates including the audience in a live video feed, which will go into the creative mix.”
The creative team is composed of Nick Johnson (theatrical movement and mime), Sabrina Vasquez (dance), Kevin Glenn (composer and music director), Martha Glenn (vocal coach), Renee Swan (set and costume design), Elizabeth Lincoln (costume design), Vincent Pascoe (cinematography), Wes Sullivan (lighting design) and Andrew Cupo (theater arts).
The cast and crew will be concentrating on “the moment,” literally and figuratively “in the now,” as Nick leads them in the creation of “NOW! “The Game of Life,” catching transitory moments that make up human existence.
“I have a recurring image of people chasing Father Time, trying to catch up with him, elusive fellow,” said Nick, describing the image in his head for the production. “I’m envisioning roller coasters, games, track races, quiet moments, loud moments, and memories. Birth, death, love and war.”
The performing arts residency, which runs for approximately three weeks with all materials, music, makeup, video, costumes, sets and props, and workshops included, is $395 ($370 plus a registration fee of $25).
For information call 480-575-2070.