Northwestern University's Virginia Wadsworth Wirtz Center for Performing and Media Arts in Chicago will host four productions this fall, each highlighting significant historical figures or cultural traditions and exploring art's healing power.
"All three of these fall offerings are by celebrated writer-performers who tell intimate personal stories that resonate across time and place," said Tanya Palmer, assistant dean and executive artistic director for Northwestern’s School of Communication. "Each performance is distinct, but all of them grapple with art’s ability — in the face of real damage and devastation — to heal us."
Tickets can be purchased through the Wirtz Center website, by calling the box office at 847-491-7282, or visiting the box office located on the Evanston campus in the Barber Theater lobby.
Media interested in reviewing any of the fall productions should contact Stephen Lewis at stephen.j.lewis@northwestern.edu.
The Fall 2024 lineup includes:
"Tipi Tales from the Stoop" (Oct. 4-5), written and performed by Murielle Borst-Tarrant, directed by Steven Sapp and Mildred Ruiz-Sapp. This production tells the story of Borst-Tarrant's family history as Native Americans in New York City, their survival through various adversities, and their efforts to keep traditions alive. The program is funded partly by the Astere E. Claeyssens Artist-in-Residence program.
"Grace" (Oct. 10-12), written and performed by Chloe Johnston, directed by Coya Paz. This interactive performance delves into artificial intelligence, games, technology, identity construction both online and offline, and how natural language processing programs affect our daily lives. It is presented in partnership with Pivot Arts and Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE).
"Felon: An American Washi Tale" (Oct. 25-26) by Reginald Dwayne Betts explores his transformation from a teenager in solitary confinement to a poet, lawyer, and advocate for prisoners' rights. The solo theater show is based on his poetry collection "Felon." Betts promotes literacy in prisons through his nonprofit organization Freedom Reads.
"I came here to weep" (Nov. 15-16), created by Yanira Castro/a canary torsi, first presented at Brooklyn’s Chocolate Factory Theatre in 2023. This performance installation involves participatory scores with materials and an audio environment designed by NU faculty member Stephan Moore. It examines U.S. territorial possession and Puerto Rican sovereignty while inviting audiences into a collective exorcism. It is part of CLATA's DESTINOS festival.
Wirtz Center Chicago offers state-of-the-art facilities within Abbott Hall on Northwestern’s Chicago campus. It features two black box theaters, rehearsal rooms, an expansive lobby space, and free parking adjacent to the theater.