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Event
The Devotees
Tents, tech, camp chairs, and concrete. This campsite is not about getting outside. It's about being there for the next big thing. On the eve of the release of the newest L series phone, a collection of diehards stake out their territory in the fanatical line family.
For its ninth show, The Cardboard Sea turns attention to the darker forces that drive into our undying devotions. "The Devotees" is a new play by Florida-based playwright, and The Cardboard Sea company member, Jeff Donnelly.
"It's about this very peculiar thing that's happened within our lifetimes, those of us that are part of this company," says Donnelly. "We're constantly subscribing, following, liking, upgrading...what are we really committed to anymore? Does anything genuinely excite us; are we in love with anyone or anything? Or are we just devoted to the thrill of waiting for what comes next?"
"The Devotees" unfolds through a single night, in a single line outside an electronics store, as a group of strangers awaits the release of the latest and greatest device. The gadget purports to hold some sort of promise for each of them, but there are limits to how much two by five inches of aluminum and circuitry can deliver. It's a play about waiting, about expectations, and about loyalty. It's about choosing your family.
"What interests me as a director are the crazy ways in which we show up for one another. Being a person demands that we play numerous roles. Life forces us to act--to become actors. We are performative," says company member and director, Todd Weakley. "Jeff's play finds that sweet spot in our humanity. The characters are caught between the authenticity of a life well lived and the necessity of the performances we are forced into."
"The characters are a dynamic mix of grit and whimsy," says company member Kristi DeVille. DeVille plays Cate, a reluctant and vocal member of the line family. DeVille also choreographed several movement sections.
"The Devotees" features original music presented live by Ryan Anderson of the local rock band Minorcan. "Including Ryan adds a vital layer. His music is raw and emotional, and his live performances are honest and embodied. To me that is electric," says Weakley.
In addition to DeVille, the performance features company members Charlie Holt and Kirstin Daniel, and newcomers Stevie Alverson and Sam Yoffee. Olivia Stuller serves as stage manager.
"The Cardboard Sea forges a new relationship with The Sublime Theater. Steve Samuels has been so good to us over the years, offering us guidance, support, and space. We are excited to present in association with The Sublime Theater," says Donnelly.
With a commitment to the transformative nature of live performance, a belief in the collaborative process, and an obsession for storytelling, The Cardboard Sea seeks to activate, engage, surprise, and provoke audiences into new and challenging territory. We aim to: produce works of social significance, highlight the constructed nature of the theatrical event, and provoke self-reflection and critical perspectives.
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LocationThe BeBe Theater (View)
20 Commerce Street
Asheville, NC 28801
United States
Categories
| Minimum Age: 16 |
| Kid Friendly: No |
| Dog Friendly: No |
| Non-Smoking: Yes! |
| Wheelchair Accessible: Yes! |
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