‘Koyaanisqatsi’ introduces interactive theatre and multi-stage performances

Andrea Vasquez-- October 17, 2012

HOUSTON – The San Jacinto College South department of theatre and film will host its Fall production, “Koyaanisqatsi,” opening Oct. 24.

A Hopi Indian word meaning a life or spirit unbalanced, “Koyaanisqatsi” is a new theatrical event that was conceived by San Jacinto College South’s Acting I class and features set design and performances by students from the visual arts, theatre, dance, and music departments.

The audience will be taken through a world of misplaced priorities, lethargy, tragedy, and outright evil into a world where goodness, innocence, empathy, and determination triumph over chaos. Each scene is a product of an acting student’s imagination, and their interpretation of an abstract piece of music. 

Directed by Kevin Holden, the department’s new theatre and film professor, Holden wanted to create a theatrical experiment involving students from various art disciplines. “I wanted to establish a new aesthetic and new way of doing theatre,” said Holden. “All together, we hope to create an abstract, but immersive journey for our audience. This isn’t a play to watch, but an event in which to participate. Don’t expect to sit quietly in your cushioned seat and view a TV-like performance. The rules for audience etiquette can be thrown out the window for this production. In ‘Koyaanisqatsi,’ you’re there in the same world as the performers and you’re part of the show.”

"Koyaanisqatsi" runs Oct. 24 – 27 with all performances beginning at 8 p.m. in the Marie Spence Flickinger Fine Arts Center located at 13735 Beamer Road in Houston. The show takes place in the fine arts lobby, the Proscenium Theatre, and the Black Box Theatre. Audiences should be prepared to move from space to space. Admission is free for San Jacinto College students and $5 for all others.

For more information on San Jacinto College fine arts and theatre productions, visit arts.sanjac.edu.

About San Jacinto College

Surrounded by monuments of history, industries and maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has been serving the citizens of East Harris County, Texas, for more than 50 years. The Achieving the Dream Leader College is committed to the goals and aspirations of a diverse population of 30,000 students in more than 200 degree and certificate options, including university transfer and career preparation. Students also benefit from the College’s job training programs, renowned for meeting the needs of growing industries in the region. San Jacinto College graduates contribute nearly $630 million each year to the Texas workforce. San Jacinto College. Your Goals. Your College.

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