Shadow Theatre mounts explosive drama
After more than four years of heavy lifting, Shadow Theatre presents the world premiere of Bravo opening tomorrow night for a two-week run at the Backstage Theatre.
Red Deer playwright Blaine Newton revisits the American hydrogen bomb detonation on the Marshall Islands in 1954. In a short synopsis, a Japanese fisherman is caught in the fallout of the detonation. An emotionless anthropologist teaches the effects of radiation on people, and a cynical politician protects his country no matter the cost.
Shifting back and forth from 1954 to present day, Bravo explores the political decisions that changed the world and their all too human consequences.
John Hudson directs this multi-media production starring regional luminaries Mark Kunji Ikeda, Glenn Nelson, Liana Shannon and Aaron Talbot.
Backstage Theatre is at 10330 84 Ave. Tickets range from $18 to $27. Two-for-one Tuesdays and pay-what-you-can Saturday matinees. Call 780-420-1757 or tixonthesquare.ca.
A Taste of Animethon
The Alberta Society for Asian Popular Arts is hosting the sixth annual A Taste of Animethon at the Shaw Conference Centre on Jan. 22 to 23.
Slightly smaller than the big annual August bash at MacEwan College, this event still features a full slate of panel discussions, fashion shows, an animethon showcase, contests, parodies and a lip-sync battle.
“We want to shake up the winter months so it’s not all dark and gloomy. We are a winter festival city and we want to get in the spirit of it. And we’re always wanting to grow our community and spread new interest,” said publicist Vicky Lau.
The St. Albert resident will get in the spirit of Animethon dressing up as Mulan, the Chinese warrior maid Disney made famous in its 1998 animation.
Special featured guests are Reika, a top Japanese cosplayer based in Osaka and Misako Aoki, an ambassador for the doll-like Lolita fashion line.
Lau encourages visitors to register early for the Saturday only Maid’s CafĂ© that was a sell-out last year. Patterned after Maid’s Cafes in Japan, visitors can expect to be graciously served with snacks and drinks. Interactive activities and performances are also included in the experience.
A two-day pass that includes all events is $35. Children under 12 are admitted free if accompanied by an adult. For a complete schedule visit atoa.animethon.org.
