Fire Museum Presents: VIDEO PREMIERE: KAPILA VENU - KUTIYATTAM PERFORMANCE

THIS PREMIERE WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM 5TH SEPTEMBER TO 12TH SEPTEMBER 2023. View it at https://youtu.be/AmgpVFnwHzs

Kapila Venu is a renowned Kutiyattam practitioner and one of the foremost disciples of the legendary Kutiyattam maestro Guru Ammannur Madhava Ckakyar. She has also trained in Kutiyattam with renowned masters such as Guru G Venu, Guru Ammannur Kuttan Chakyar, Guru Usha Nangiar and Guru C N Rama Chakyar and in Mohiniyattam dance under Guru Nirmala Paniker for several years.

Venu spent five years of her life in Japan working with avant-garde actor-dancer Min Tanaka where she also studied the theatre philosophy of the 14th-century Noh master and scholar Zeami Motokiyo.

Kapila has been performing Kutiyattam and Nangiar Koothu, both as a solo performer and together with the ensembles at Natanakairali and Ammannur Gurukulam all over the world since 1997.

Forplay Society & Fire Museum present Kapila Venu – Devi Mahatmyam Nangiar Koothu

Episode – Mahishasurajanananam – The birth story of Mahishasura

Accompanying Artistes Mizhavu – Kalamandalam Rajeev, Kalamandalam Hariharan Edakka – Kalanilayam Unnikrishnan Thalam – Saritha Krishnakumar

Ensemble – Kottichetham Kutiyattam Ensemble

Recorded at the Foreplay Society, Festival, Mattancherry, Kerala. 14th January 2023

THIS PREMIERE WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM 5TH SEPTEMBER TO 12TH SEPTEMBER 2023. View it at https://youtu.be/AmgpVFnwHzs

EVERY WEDNESDAY IN SEPTEMBER! Sept 6, 13, 20, and 27, all at 6pm until about 7:15pm. Come Move with Me with Sanovia Garrett is not just your average movement experience. It is an inclusive, interactive, and judgment-free space that welcomes individuals of all ages, shapes, sizes, colors, and dance abilities. Led by the talented trauma-informed artist Sanovia, this live movement experience is designed to leave you feeling refreshed and uplifted.

One unique aspect of Come Move with Me is the collaborative playlist creation. Participants have the opportunity to contribute to the playlist, ensuring that it caters to everyone's tastes and preferences. After a long day of work, this is the perfect way to unwind and move your body in a supportive environment.

And remember, you are encouraged to bring a friend along to share in the joy! The more, the merrier.

In terms of payment, Come Move with Me operates on a "Pay What You Wish" model, with a minimum contribution of $5. This allows for accessibility while also valuing the experience provided.

Please send to $pcklight on cash app, @sanovia-garrett on Venmo, or use the page www.iamsanovia.com/give .

Light refreshments will be served to keep you energized and hydrated. The space itself embodies freedom of expression, liberation, and a deep connection with our bodies. Who knows, you might even be lucky enough to witness a special appearance by a guest DJ at one of the sessions.

So, if you're looking for a transformative movement experience that celebrates diversity and promotes self-expression, Come Move with Me is the place to be. Join us and let your body and soul soar.

William Morris Burrison is a three time Pennsylvania Arts Council fellowship recipient for playwriting. Burrison has worked as a community newspaper journalist for the Center City Review. His poetry has been published in the Overbrook Poets Voices in the Streem Volume 2. 

He is currently working on a short story collection titles In University City. 

The Bread & Puppet Theater / The Boxcutter Collective present The History of LaughterPhilly Fringe FestivalAn ancient god’s divine laughter creates the universe, then promptly abandons the scene. How will the masses defy their flimsy paper authorities? Laughter reveals the key in this work of radical puppetry populated by clouds, Santa Claus, an Idiot Manifesto, a brass band, and a 100-watt lightbulb.

The History of Laughter is a puppet show created by Peter Schumann of Vermont's Bread & Puppet Theater and New York's Boxcutter Collective. Produced at The La MaMa Experimental Theater Club in June 2022, it makes its Philly debut at the Fringe alongside other short works by the Boxcutters.

Showtimes: Friday Sept 8 at 7pmSaturday Sept 9 at 3pmSaturday Sept 9 at 7pmSunday Sept 10 at 3pmSunday Sept 10 at 3pm

Admission is $20 with pay-what-you-can options. Tickets can be purchased HERE

The Bread ​& Puppet Theater was founded in 1963 by ​German-born sculptor-choreographer ​Peter Schumann on New York's​ Lower East Side. The concerns of the first productions were rents, rats, police, and other problems of the neighborhood​, and then shows about U.S. involvement in Vietnam that led the company to tour the world in the late 1960s​. In 197​0​ Bread ​& Puppet moved to​​ Vermont​ and began an annual tradition of hosting giant circuses ​​and pageants amidst a majestic rural landscape. Today​ Bread & Puppet continues to be one of the oldest, nonprofit, political theater companies in the world​ with recent Philadelphia residencies at Icebox Projects Space, Philadelphia School of Circus Arts, ​First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia, and The Rotunda.

Boxcutter Collective is a Brooklyn​-​based puppet theater ​outfit founded in 2016 by five Bread & Puppet company members based in New York: Sam Wilson, Jason Hicks, Ali Dineen, Tom Cunningham​, ​ and Joseph Therrien. Since the​ir inception, ​ the Boxcutters have been hellbent on making shows to confront the humanity-threatening dilemma of the status quo. Boxcutter Collective performs regularly in NYC at La Mama and Brooklyn'se Jalopy Theater, ​ and are representing the U.S. at the year's International Puppet Fringe. Their most recent Philadelphia performances were at The Barnes Foundation and various lesser known haunts.

Admission is $20 with pay-what-you-can options. Tickets can be purchased HERE

The Bread & Puppet Theater / The Boxcutter Collective present The History of LaughterPhilly Fringe FestivalAn ancient god’s divine laughter creates the universe, then promptly abandons the scene. How will the masses defy their flimsy paper authorities? Laughter reveals the key in this work of radical puppetry populated by clouds, Santa Claus, an Idiot Manifesto, a brass band, and a 100-watt lightbulb.

The History of Laughter is a puppet show created by Peter Schumann of Vermont's Bread & Puppet Theater and New York's Boxcutter Collective. Produced at The La MaMa Experimental Theater Club in June 2022, it makes its Philly debut at the Fringe alongside other short works by the Boxcutters.

Showtimes: Friday Sept 8 at 7pmSaturday Sept 9 at 3pmSaturday Sept 9 at 7pmSunday Sept 10 at 3pmSunday Sept 10 at 3pm

Admission is $20 with pay-what-you-can options. Tickets can be purchased HERE

The Bread ​& Puppet Theater was founded in 1963 by ​German-born sculptor-choreographer ​Peter Schumann on New York's​ Lower East Side. The concerns of the first productions were rents, rats, police, and other problems of the neighborhood​, and then shows about U.S. involvement in Vietnam that led the company to tour the world in the late 1960s​. In 197​0​ Bread ​& Puppet moved to​​ Vermont​ and began an annual tradition of hosting giant circuses ​​and pageants amidst a majestic rural landscape. Today​ Bread & Puppet continues to be one of the oldest, nonprofit, political theater companies in the world​ with recent Philadelphia residencies at Icebox Projects Space, Philadelphia School of Circus Arts, ​First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia, and The Rotunda.

Boxcutter Collective is a Brooklyn​-​based puppet theater ​outfit founded in 2016 by five Bread & Puppet company members based in New York: Sam Wilson, Jason Hicks, Ali Dineen, Tom Cunningham​, ​ and Joseph Therrien. Since the​ir inception, ​ the Boxcutters have been hellbent on making shows to confront the humanity-threatening dilemma of the status quo. Boxcutter Collective performs regularly in NYC at La Mama and Brooklyn'se Jalopy Theater, ​ and are representing the U.S. at the year's International Puppet Fringe. Their most recent Philadelphia performances were at The Barnes Foundation and various lesser known haunts.

Admission is $20 with pay-what-you-can options. Tickets can be purchased HERE

The Bread & Puppet Theater / The Boxcutter Collective present The History of LaughterPhilly Fringe FestivalAn ancient god’s divine laughter creates the universe, then promptly abandons the scene. How will the masses defy their flimsy paper authorities? Laughter reveals the key in this work of radical puppetry populated by clouds, Santa Claus, an Idiot Manifesto, a brass band, and a 100-watt lightbulb.

The History of Laughter is a puppet show created by Peter Schumann of Vermont's Bread & Puppet Theater and New York's Boxcutter Collective. Produced at The La MaMa Experimental Theater Club in June 2022, it makes its Philly debut at the Fringe alongside other short works by the Boxcutters.

Showtimes: Friday Sept 8 at 7pmSaturday Sept 9 at 3pmSaturday Sept 9 at 7pmSunday Sept 10 at 3pmSunday Sept 10 at 3pm

Admission is $20 with pay-what-you-can options. Tickets can be purchased HERE

The Bread ​& Puppet Theater was founded in 1963 by ​German-born sculptor-choreographer ​Peter Schumann on New York's​ Lower East Side. The concerns of the first productions were rents, rats, police, and other problems of the neighborhood​, and then shows about U.S. involvement in Vietnam that led the company to tour the world in the late 1960s​. In 197​0​ Bread ​& Puppet moved to​​ Vermont​ and began an annual tradition of hosting giant circuses ​​and pageants amidst a majestic rural landscape. Today​ Bread & Puppet continues to be one of the oldest, nonprofit, political theater companies in the world​ with recent Philadelphia residencies at Icebox Projects Space, Philadelphia School of Circus Arts, ​First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia, and The Rotunda.

Boxcutter Collective is a Brooklyn​-​based puppet theater ​outfit founded in 2016 by five Bread & Puppet company members based in New York: Sam Wilson, Jason Hicks, Ali Dineen, Tom Cunningham​, ​ and Joseph Therrien. Since the​ir inception, ​ the Boxcutters have been hellbent on making shows to confront the humanity-threatening dilemma of the status quo. Boxcutter Collective performs regularly in NYC at La Mama and Brooklyn'se Jalopy Theater, ​ and are representing the U.S. at the year's International Puppet Fringe. Their most recent Philadelphia performances were at The Barnes Foundation and various lesser known haunts.

Admission is $20 with pay-what-you-can options. Tickets can be purchased HERE

The Bread & Puppet Theater / The Boxcutter Collective present The History of LaughterPhilly Fringe FestivalAn ancient god’s divine laughter creates the universe, then promptly abandons the scene. How will the masses defy their flimsy paper authorities? Laughter reveals the key in this work of radical puppetry populated by clouds, Santa Claus, an Idiot Manifesto, a brass band, and a 100-watt lightbulb.

The History of Laughter is a puppet show created by Peter Schumann of Vermont's Bread & Puppet Theater and New York's Boxcutter Collective. Produced at The La MaMa Experimental Theater Club in June 2022, it makes its Philly debut at the Fringe alongside other short works by the Boxcutters.

Showtimes: Friday Sept 8 at 7pmSaturday Sept 9 at 3pmSaturday Sept 9 at 7pmSunday Sept 10 at 3pmSunday Sept 10 at 3pm

Admission is $20 with pay-what-you-can options. Tickets can be purchased HERE

The Bread ​& Puppet Theater was founded in 1963 by ​German-born sculptor-choreographer ​Peter Schumann on New York's​ Lower East Side. The concerns of the first productions were rents, rats, police, and other problems of the neighborhood​, and then shows about U.S. involvement in Vietnam that led the company to tour the world in the late 1960s​. In 197​0​ Bread ​& Puppet moved to​​ Vermont​ and began an annual tradition of hosting giant circuses ​​and pageants amidst a majestic rural landscape. Today​ Bread & Puppet continues to be one of the oldest, nonprofit, political theater companies in the world​ with recent Philadelphia residencies at Icebox Projects Space, Philadelphia School of Circus Arts, ​First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia, and The Rotunda.

Boxcutter Collective is a Brooklyn​-​based puppet theater ​outfit founded in 2016 by five Bread & Puppet company members based in New York: Sam Wilson, Jason Hicks, Ali Dineen, Tom Cunningham​, ​ and Joseph Therrien. Since the​ir inception, ​ the Boxcutters have been hellbent on making shows to confront the humanity-threatening dilemma of the status quo. Boxcutter Collective performs regularly in NYC at La Mama and Brooklyn'se Jalopy Theater, ​ and are representing the U.S. at the year's International Puppet Fringe. Their most recent Philadelphia performances were at The Barnes Foundation and various lesser known haunts.

Admission is $20 with pay-what-you-can options. Tickets can be purchased HERE

The Bread & Puppet Theater / The Boxcutter Collective present The History of LaughterPhilly Fringe FestivalAn ancient god’s divine laughter creates the universe, then promptly abandons the scene. How will the masses defy their flimsy paper authorities? Laughter reveals the key in this work of radical puppetry populated by clouds, Santa Claus, an Idiot Manifesto, a brass band, and a 100-watt lightbulb.

The History of Laughter is a puppet show created by Peter Schumann of Vermont's Bread & Puppet Theater and New York's Boxcutter Collective. Produced at The La MaMa Experimental Theater Club in June 2022, it makes its Philly debut at the Fringe alongside other short works by the Boxcutters.

Showtimes: Friday Sept 8 at 7pmSaturday Sept 9 at 3pmSaturday Sept 9 at 7pmSunday Sept 10 at 3pmSunday Sept 10 at 3pm

Admission is $20 with pay-what-you-can options. Tickets can be purchased HERE

The Bread ​& Puppet Theater was founded in 1963 by ​German-born sculptor-choreographer ​Peter Schumann on New York's​ Lower East Side. The concerns of the first productions were rents, rats, police, and other problems of the neighborhood​, and then shows about U.S. involvement in Vietnam that led the company to tour the world in the late 1960s​. In 197​0​ Bread ​& Puppet moved to​​ Vermont​ and began an annual tradition of hosting giant circuses ​​and pageants amidst a majestic rural landscape. Today​ Bread & Puppet continues to be one of the oldest, nonprofit, political theater companies in the world​ with recent Philadelphia residencies at Icebox Projects Space, Philadelphia School of Circus Arts, ​First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia, and The Rotunda.

Boxcutter Collective is a Brooklyn​-​based puppet theater ​outfit founded in 2016 by five Bread & Puppet company members based in New York: Sam Wilson, Jason Hicks, Ali Dineen, Tom Cunningham​, ​ and Joseph Therrien. Since the​ir inception, ​ the Boxcutters have been hellbent on making shows to confront the humanity-threatening dilemma of the status quo. Boxcutter Collective performs regularly in NYC at La Mama and Brooklyn'se Jalopy Theater, ​ and are representing the U.S. at the year's International Puppet Fringe. Their most recent Philadelphia performances were at The Barnes Foundation and various lesser known haunts.

Admission is $20 with pay-what-you-can options. Tickets can be purchased HERE

​The Bigger Picture presents Artist Statement Workshop with Kalina HarrisonJoin us for the Artist Statement Workshop on September 11, 2023, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This exciting event will be hosted by Jasmine Jahwula Seapoe, with Kalina Harrison as your workshop facilitator. 

​This workshop is designed to help artists craft a compelling and professional artist statement. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, this workshop will provide you with the tools and guidance to effectively communicate your artistic vision and purpose. So, come along and let's create some magic together! Workshop topics include marketing yourself via EPKs, artist statements, and resumes.

Registration is FREE and required. Please register HERE

William Morris Burrison is a three time Pennsylvania Arts Council fellowship recipient for playwriting. Burrison has worked as a community newspaper journalist for the Center City Review. His poetry has been published in the Overbrook Poets Voices in the Streem Volume 2. He is currently working on a short story collection titles In University City.

EVERY WEDNESDAY IN SEPTEMBER! Sept 6, 13, 20, and 27, all at 6pm until about 7:15pm. Come Move with Me with Sanovia Garrett is not just your average movement experience. It is an inclusive, interactive, and judgment-free space that welcomes individuals of all ages, shapes, sizes, colors, and dance abilities. Led by the talented trauma-informed artist Sanovia, this live movement experience is designed to leave you feeling refreshed and uplifted.

One unique aspect of Come Move with Me is the collaborative playlist creation. Participants have the opportunity to contribute to the playlist, ensuring that it caters to everyone's tastes and preferences. After a long day of work, this is the perfect way to unwind and move your body in a supportive environment.

And remember, you are encouraged to bring a friend along to share in the joy! The more, the merrier.

In terms of payment, Come Move with Me operates on a "Pay What You Wish" model, with a minimum contribution of $5. This allows for accessibility while also valuing the experience provided.

Please send to $pcklight on cash app, @sanovia-garrett on Venmo, or use the page www.iamsanovia.com/give .

Light refreshments will be served to keep you energized and hydrated. The space itself embodies freedom of expression, liberation, and a deep connection with our bodies. Who knows, you might even be lucky enough to witness a special appearance by a guest DJ at one of the sessions.

So, if you're looking for a transformative movement experience that celebrates diversity and promotes self-expression, Come Move with Me is the place to be. Join us and let your body and soul soar.

showcasing multi-media arts by women of African heritage

Featuring M. Tonita Austin (poet), O (performance art), Sincere Melody (spoken word), Badd Gurlz Inq (music), Naa Koikoi Aziza Zinzile Kebe (poet), Asha Mollock (film), Ghettosongbird (music), Cassendre Xavier (musician/host/founder), Tamara L. Xavier (choreographer/dancer), All People's Open Mic from 6pm-7pm both days, and more TBA. Vendors include Kai Moon Oceans, Nina Bolden, Atiya Ola's Spirit First Foods, Rayla, and Evyonna Stevenson.

showcasing multi-media arts by women of African heritage

Featuring M. Tonita Austin (poet), O (performance art), Sincere Melody (spoken word), Badd Gurlz Inq (music), Naa Koikoi Aziza Zinzile Kebe (poet), Asha Mollock (film), Ghettosongbird (music), Cassendre Xavier (musician/host/founder), Tamara L. Xavier (choreographer/dancer), All People's Open Mic from 6pm-7pm both days, and more TBA. Vendors include Kai Moon Oceans, Nina Bolden, Atiya Ola's Spirit First Foods, Rayla, and Evyonna Stevenson.

William Morris Burrison is a three time Pennsylvania Arts Council fellowship recipient for playwriting. Burrison has worked as a community newspaper journalist for the Center City Review. His poetry has been published in the Overbrook Poets Voices in the Streem Volume 2. He is currently working on a short story collection titles In University City.

EVERY WEDNESDAY IN SEPTEMBER! Sept 6, 13, 20, and 27, all at 6pm until about 7:15pm. Come Move with Me with Sanovia Garrett is not just your average movement experience. It is an inclusive, interactive, and judgment-free space that welcomes individuals of all ages, shapes, sizes, colors, and dance abilities. Led by the talented trauma-informed artist Sanovia, this live movement experience is designed to leave you feeling refreshed and uplifted.

One unique aspect of Come Move with Me is the collaborative playlist creation. Participants have the opportunity to contribute to the playlist, ensuring that it caters to everyone's tastes and preferences. After a long day of work, this is the perfect way to unwind and move your body in a supportive environment.

And remember, you are encouraged to bring a friend along to share in the joy! The more, the merrier.

In terms of payment, Come Move with Me operates on a "Pay What You Wish" model, with a minimum contribution of $5. This allows for accessibility while also valuing the experience provided.

Please send to $pcklight on cash app, @sanovia-garrett on Venmo, or use the page www.iamsanovia.com/give .

Light refreshments will be served to keep you energized and hydrated. The space itself embodies freedom of expression, liberation, and a deep connection with our bodies. Who knows, you might even be lucky enough to witness a special appearance by a guest DJ at one of the sessions.

So, if you're looking for a transformative movement experience that celebrates diversity and promotes self-expression, Come Move with Me is the place to be. Join us and let your body and soul soar.

PASS THE MIC

This is a masked event! 

Celebrate the new, more accessible stage ramp at The Rotunda with a ribbon cutting ceremony + OPEN MIC full of amazing, juicy acts from local Disabled, Chronically Ill, neurodivergent, and mad artists!

Doors open at 4:30pm. Ribbon Cutting at 5:30pm followed by an open mic! 

Hook&Loop members have been using their lived experiences with mobility devices to help the team at The Rotunda build an accessible ramp to the stage! Celebrate the grand opening of this new ramp at our ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by Hook&Loop members Bing and Phoebe Dilworth!

Then enjoy music, dance, poetry, comedy, and performance art from local Disabled, Chronically Ill, neurodivergent, and mad artists at our OPEN MIC. Hosted by the incomparable Parker Gabriel with musical backing from mx.dash.

Want to perform or share something at our open mic? Sign up using the information and link below!

CLICK HERE to SIGN UP for our OPEN MIC

We welcome anyone who feels validated by the work Hook&Loop is doing to be a part of our OPEN MIC!

Artists are welcome to share anything that can be done on a stage - music, poetry, dance, DJ, spoken word, comedy, etc (we may be able to share video/pre recorded work upon request)!

Sign up form closes SEPTEMBER 14th.

This is a masked event! 

More info HERE

EVERY WEDNESDAY IN SEPTEMBER! Sept 6, 13, 20, and 27, all at 6pm until about 7:15pm. Come Move with Me with Sanovia Garrett is not just your average movement experience. It is an inclusive, interactive, and judgment-free space that welcomes individuals of all ages, shapes, sizes, colors, and dance abilities. Led by the talented trauma-informed artist Sanovia, this live movement experience is designed to leave you feeling refreshed and uplifted.

One unique aspect of Come Move with Me is the collaborative playlist creation. Participants have the opportunity to contribute to the playlist, ensuring that it caters to everyone's tastes and preferences. After a long day of work, this is the perfect way to unwind and move your body in a supportive environment.

And remember, you are encouraged to bring a friend along to share in the joy! The more, the merrier.

In terms of payment, Come Move with Me operates on a "Pay What You Wish" model, with a minimum contribution of $5. This allows for accessibility while also valuing the experience provided.

Please send to $pcklight on cash app, @sanovia-garrett on Venmo, or use the page www.iamsanovia.com/give .

Light refreshments will be served to keep you energized and hydrated. The space itself embodies freedom of expression, liberation, and a deep connection with our bodies. Who knows, you might even be lucky enough to witness a special appearance by a guest DJ at one of the sessions.

So, if you're looking for a transformative movement experience that celebrates diversity and promotes self-expression, Come Move with Me is the place to be. Join us and let your body and soul soar.