Annika B. Lewis. Photo by Freddy Thornberg.
Baltimore Theatre Project is a part of Theatre Communications Group, a non-profit organization, dedicated to aiding in the development of upcoming artists while providing a home for audiences to experience diverse art forms delivered by local and international performers.
I had the pleasure of experiencing an interactive, audience participation, piece performed by Swedish artist and producer Annika B. Lewis entitled Let’s get Personal, a short presentation modeling the cookie cutter systems used in today’s corporate world geared toward increasing human potential for increased profit or status.
Lewis continued, with my undivided attention…
In the beginning, the audience is caught off guard being asked to come on stage to indulge in a few snacks and a brief introduction session. We were unaware that we had become “part of the show” at this point. There were mixed emotions flying around the room. I was fearful of what we may be asked to do next and perplexed by the whole idea of just simply being on stage. Weren’t we supposed to be the audience? Wasn’t she supposed to perform? I wanted to laugh at what we thought was an extremely weird situation. When told we could all take our seats in the audience, it was as if a cord that had been strangling my throat had been released. I could breathe. I was relieved to be going to my seat. Finally out of the “lime light” and into the safety of the dark auditorium like space that held our soft cushioned chairs.
Lewis continued, with my undivided attention, crafting a dry comical perspective into the obscenity of employee optimization. Is this all human beings are good for? Should our main goal be to continually improve for the good of the establishment? Are we encouraged to “get personal” only to find that in the end we are anything but “personal?” The conclusion of the performance was followed by a 15 minute break and another presentation entitled F.E.A.R.- scherzo #2.
In this second performance of interactive theater, Lewis collaborates with Baltimore talent Vincent E. Thomas delivering a jolting message about the crippling effects fear has at the societal level as well as at the personal level. The dramatic use of movement by Lewis and Thomas in addition to the proximity of audience members creates an optimal launching pad from which the show takes off engaging our minds and connecting us to the fears of others. Making us aware just how much this human emotion burrows its way into our souls stripping us of our full capability to experience peace and happiness. Thankfully Lewis and Thomas make us aware, through use of theatrical improv and audience engagement that fear can be put aside and disposed of in such a way that we become restored with hope and the ability to savor peace and contentment.
Running Time: 90 minutes with a 20-minute intermission.
The Baltimore Theatre Project is located in North West Baltimore in the cultural district with easy access to the light rail system and plenty of roadside parking. It’s a small but very comfortable theatre serving snacks and wine for a small fee. For information regarding upcoming performances, contact the theatre at 410-752-8558 or click here.
