How the Emperor Lost his Clothes
For three more nights, Parley Productions is inviting the public to participate first in the immersive dramaturgical experience The Bacchic Rites inspired by ritual elements explored in the play, or just sit out and watch, as I did. Then watch a workshop production of Cowboys with Questions, a modern take on a Greek Tragedy by Rebecca Tourino Collinsworth. It could be subtitled: How the Emperor Lost his Clothes.
In a tunnel beneath the Soledad Mission in California, a group of people are drinking wine with a special ingredient. They’re all in thrall to George, a charismatic leader with an uncanny ability to skirt death. Then a cowboy interrupts their secret ritual with questions about cattle, real estate, orgies, even the Talking Heads. Inspired equally by The Bacchae, cults, and the Doomsday Clock, Cowboys With Questions examines the pleasures and costs of surviving in uncertain times.
Although I only observed the Bacchic Rites, I found it all very soothing, meditative and it served a very important purpose in setting up the expectation that a utopia was being created somewhere in the countryside. The play opened in this so-called cult-like utopia, but when an unwanted stranger arrives, denial is stripped away and everything falls apart.
There were some strong performances and some excellent writing, as well as interesting music played on tradition Greek stringed instruments. In my opinion with all the individuals on the right and the left in the U.S. and abroad as well as even right here in Seattle, trying to re-create 1930’s like cult of personalities, writing about a 1960’s style cult of “enlightenment” seems highly appropriate.
Cowboys with Questions. Parley Productions. 12th Ave Arts, 1620-12th Ave, Capitol Hill, Seattle, 98112. Four performances only. Aug. 31-Sept. 3.The Bacchic Rites* begin at 7 pm; a Workshop production at 8 pm.Tickets and Info: https://www.parleyproductions.com/
*The Bacchic Rites are an immersive dramaturgical experience culminating in a Movement performance by the cast, inspired by ritual elements explored in the play.
All elements of audience participation are limited to individuals who consent. “Consent cards” will be given to each audience member to display or revoke their consent at any time, no questions asked
SAFE PEOPLE. RISKY ART.
All support staff and crew will be masked in accordance with COVID-19 safety protocols. All audience members must wear their own COVID-19 prevention masks to the performance when not eating or drinking. All cast and crew have demonstrated proof of vaccination. Only vaccinated patrons will be admitted to the performance; patrons must provide vaccination documentation before admission.