News
April, 2022
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FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY - I designed the violence for The University of Pittsburgh's Theatre Arts' production of Emilia, directed by Bria Walker.
SHOW - We closed a sold-out run of Or Forever Hold Your Peace. Thank you to everyone who came out to see the show and to everyone who donated to the company. Your donations allow us to continue to pay our artists and keep free art free!
March, 2022
SHOW - Free ticket reservations are now live for Or Forever Hold Your Peace. Only 30 seats per performance, so grab yours quick! Approx 90 minute run time. (UPDATE: The show is sold out! A Waitlist will be made for every show. See full details on our ticket reservation page.)
February, 2022
Free ticket reservations going live in early March! The show will be at Big Storm Studios, 6901 Lynn Way #214, Pittsburgh, PA 15208 (inside of The XFactory).
January, 2022
DIRECTING - Or Forever Hold Your Peace has been cast and rehearsals have begun!
PLANNER - Jess Malandro
SISTER - Olivia Devorah
EX - Chris Collier
JIM - Rachel Smith
CRASHER - Mathias Vitullo
MICKEY - Phil Fry
STAFF - Zhen Lee
DANCE CORE - Anne Rematt, Sydney Turnwald, Taylor Couch, José Pérez IV
Directed by: Taylor Couch & José Pérez IV Written by: José Pérez IV
Choreography by: Taylor Couch, José Pérez IV, Jenn Mikitka
Props by: Gina DiPaolo Costumes by: Taylor Couch Tech support: E Forney
PLANNER - Jess Malandro
SISTER - Olivia Devorah
EX - Chris Collier
JIM - Rachel Smith
CRASHER - Mathias Vitullo
MICKEY - Phil Fry
STAFF - Zhen Lee
DANCE CORE - Anne Rematt, Sydney Turnwald, Taylor Couch, José Pérez IV
Directed by: Taylor Couch & José Pérez IV Written by: José Pérez IV
Choreography by: Taylor Couch, José Pérez IV, Jenn Mikitka
Props by: Gina DiPaolo Costumes by: Taylor Couch Tech support: E Forney
December, 2021
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AUDITION NOTICE - Big Storm Performance Company is casting 12 performers for a new full-length dancetheatre production, Or Forever Hold Your Peace, performing in March 2022 at Big Storm Studio (Point Breeze North, Pittsburgh), Co-Directed by Taylor Couch and José Pérez IV. 7 speaking roles with variable dancing, 5 dance ensemble roles. Seeking actors who like to dance, and dancers who like to act. No formal dance training required, all bodies and all sizes welcome. Big Storm is committed to a process which is safe, fun, and supportive of mental health throughout, as well as maintaining a strict “no jags” policy. |
Show synopsis: Every wedding has its fringe characters and secondary drama. The sister of the bride is about to snap, the only guest who believes in love is a wedding crasher, the 13-year-old ring bearer has a mission, and everyone needs a change. Like a musical without singing, Big Storm brings you big dance numbers, big laughs, and really bad dating advice.
Full Audition Notice on Big Storm's website
Full Audition Notice on Big Storm's website
November, 2021
PERFORMANCE - Quest had a very successful workshop performance! Adventure (and hot beverages) was had by all. I had been dreaming of this project for so many years, it was a thrill to see it come to life. Looking forward to a future iteration of this project with more fighting, more monsters, and a grander quest.
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PLAYWRITING - After the inspiring work by Theatre Arts students in the University of Pittsburgh's staged reading of Sub-Par, I finished a new draft of the script and submitted it to Good Luck Macbeth's New Works Initiative. The Reno, NV based theatre company produces one new play each year, giving it a fully realized production! |
October, 2021
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PERFORMANCE - We are in rehearsals for Quest, produced by Big Storm! I am directing this new interactive work and a lot of the regular Big Storm crew is on the project, performing and behind the scenes.
Gina DiPaolo is working with us again, designing potions, foam swords, and possibly something big for our audiences to overcome at the climax of the show. Taylor Couch, Big Storm co-founder, is assistant directing and doing costume design. E Forney and our new friend Eli Goodfriend are bringing their game design expertise to help us shape the interactive elements. Dream team! Workshop production coming in November. 
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Poster design by Jenn Mikitika
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PLAYWRITING - The University of Pittsburgh's Department of Theatre Arts produced a staged reading of my play Sub-Par. Directed by Kelly Trumball. So much generosity and enthusiasm was shown for new play development, I left the 12 hour day of rehearsal and performance absolutely glowing. I'm feeling so energized to tackle another round of big edits, and to put up a full production of this play with Big Storm Performance Company.
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FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY - I choreographed the violence for Seton Hill University Dept of Theatre & Dance's production of The Skin of Our Teeth by Thorton Wilder. Taylor Couch assisted. |
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September, 2021
TEACHING - The Alloy School began another session, now doing 9-weeks of classes. I am teaching Capoeira again!
CREATING - I am directing a new original work with Big Storm, it will be an outdoor interactive fantasy adventure in which the audience gets to fight the actors with foam swords in a safe combat system. Magic, music, and going on a quest in one of Pittsburgh's picturesque parks during the Fall. We're putting together a workshop production for this November.
CREATING - I am directing a new original work with Big Storm, it will be an outdoor interactive fantasy adventure in which the audience gets to fight the actors with foam swords in a safe combat system. Magic, music, and going on a quest in one of Pittsburgh's picturesque parks during the Fall. We're putting together a workshop production for this November.
August, 2021
PERFORMANCE - Portals On Penn performed over two sold out weekends in August! This free, covid-cautious show took audiences from one storefront to another along two blocks of Penn Ave, seeing a 5min piece at each station for a total experience of about 45min.
More info on Big Storm's website.
Pittsburgh City Paper wrote an article on the show!
PERFORMANCE - Portals On Penn performed over two sold out weekends in August! This free, covid-cautious show took audiences from one storefront to another along two blocks of Penn Ave, seeing a 5min piece at each station for a total experience of about 45min.
More info on Big Storm's website.
Pittsburgh City Paper wrote an article on the show!
July, 2021
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WEBSITE - Big Storm's website is officially live! Explore the website and our work here. PERFORMANCE - Big Storm performed a new piece at the Glitterbox 10 Minute Play Festival, which took place this year at the Irish Centre of Pittsburgh. It was a wild and wonderful night of new theatre and old friends. Thrilled to have live performance coming back! |
TEACHING - The Alloy School began another 6-week session, now in person! I am teaching Capoeira again and thrilled to be in the same room as the students.
June, 2021
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PERFORMANCE - Rehearsals began for the next Big Storm production, Portals on Penn! Coming to the Penn Ave Arts & Commercial District in August, this covid-cautious show takes audiences from one storefront to another along two blocks of Penn, seeing a 5min piece at each station for a total experience of about 45min. We've been working on logistics for this show since March! More info to come. |
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May, 2021
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PERFORMANCE - Beep Bop Boop is Alien for "I Love You" had a fantastic run at The Opportunity Fund. Huge thank you to Jake Goodman and his team for hosting us and making this covid-safe show possible. Local NPR did a story on us and our free interactive show! It was such a pleasure to interact with a really diverse range of audiences: babies, big families, teens, older folks, and people coming out to their first theatre experience in over a year.
TEACHING - The Alloy School started up again for another 6-week session. I'm very excited to be teaching Capoeira again for this wonderful collaboration between the Kelly-Strayhorn Theatre and Pearl Arts, offering a wide variety of movement classes for all ages at pay-what-makes-you-happy rates! |
PERFORMANCE - First dance performance since lockdown! Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre's Open Window Dance Showcase, part of their Open Air series on their massive stage on Flagstaff Hill. We performed for approx. 250-300 people! Felt so good to be dancing live and back with the regular crew again. A huge Thank You to PBT, Kelly-Strayhorn Theatre, Pearl Arts, and all of the people behind the scenes that made the Open Air series possible. 
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April, 2021
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PERFORMANCE - New, live show coming at ya next month! In this covid-safe, 15min interactive performance, the audience helps teach a curious alien all about what it means to be an Earth Human. The audience gets to lead the conversation, choosing from a variety of Human Subjects like Smiling Lessons, Nice Memories, and Life Advice. The actor stays inside a closed storefront window at all times, the audience remains outside, calling the actor on their cellphone. Reserve your FREE tickets here. |
March, 2021
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PLAYWRITING - 3rd Draft done and ready for rehearsal for Very Berry Dead! This might be my favorite thing I've ever written. One act, 75pg, open gender and race casting, 7/9 actors, single set. Story concept co-created with Taylor Couch.
As always, a huge thank you to everyone who read drafts and gave feedback along the way. And a special thank you to my co-worker who shared stories about her family farm and ancestral graveyard burial drama which was the spark for the whole play! Additionally, a shout-out to the librarians at Carnegie Libraries of Pittsburgh who assisted with the research phase. It takes a village! TEACHING - Started teaching capoeira for The Alloy School! March 6 - April 10, a 6-week session with the option to do the full course or drop-ins. Another 6-week session will begin May 1. 
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PLAYWRITING - 1st Draft of Listeners Like You was completed and shared for an initial round of feedback. This one act play is about a public radio station and the morning news team getting into a whole mess of trouble. 50pgs, single set, 5 actors, open casting for gender and race. Lots of mic/audio hijinx.
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February, 2021
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PLAYWRITING - 3rd Draft done and ready for rehearsal for BB and Tango and the Apocalypse and Fun! Thank you to everyone who gave feedback and helped me to shape this new fight show. Two acts, 100pg, open gender and race casting, 10 core actors and a separate "fight crew" (a massive cast). Story concept co-created with Taylor Couch.
I am making my scripts available to anyone in the theatre community who might be interested. While I plan to put up my own productions, I'm happy to share the plays and see them produced elsewhere! TEACHING - I have been hired as a Teaching Artist for The Alloy School, hosted by The Kelly Strayhorn Theater in partnership with Pearl Arts. March 6 - April 10 will be the first 6-week course, I will be teaching Capoeira! For now, classes will be held over Zoom, until it is safe to transition to a hybrid model. |
January, 2021
PLAYWRITING - 2nd Drafts of BB and Tango and the Apocalypse and Fun! and
Very Berry Dead are finished!
Very Berry Dead are finished!
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BB and Tango and the Apocalypse and Fun!
Synopsis: A post-apocalyptic buddy journey through an American wasteland, specifically created for stage combat enthusiasts and large casts of fighters. In a broken world of raiders, cannibals, and radiation fallout, BB is trying to find their family, and Tango is just trying to do the right thing. Both of them martial arts experts, their exploits bring them together with a group of survivors in need, and inadvertently paints a target on their back. The WakeUps, a newly arisen torture cult, is hell-bent on hunting down every last survivor in the wasteland, and they’ve set their sights on BB and Tango. Two Acts. 100pg. Multiple or flexible sets. Found or improvised weapons/armor. Large cast, 10 core actors and a separate fight crew. The script is written in a way that all major characters can be played by an actor of any race or gender. |
Very Berry Dead
Synopsis: The tragic loss of multiple family members at a recent gathering brings those remaining back to the farm to bury the dead in the ancestral cemetery. However, Vermont state burial laws turn out to be a bit more strict than imagined, and space is getting tight in the old family graveyard. Who gets in, and who gets ditched? That’s left up to the patriarch, his two feuding grown children, a rancher, a pagan, a visitor, and the town health officer who was not prepared for this kind of circus. One Act. 75pg. Single set. 7 or 9 actors, flexible race and gender casting. |
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PERFORMANCE - Big Storm Performance Collaborative has been re-invited to perform at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre's Open Windows Showcase, "a platform to share the dynamic work of Pittsburgh-based dance-makers"! The original showcase had to be postponed because of COVID-19. We will be performing a 10min pieces at PBT's outdoor stage on Flagstaff Hill on May 23 at 7:30pm.
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 "Get Over Here and Say That to My Face", Feb 2019, at The Ministry.
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December, 2020
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PLAYWRITING - 1st Draft done of (working title), Berry Very Dead, coming in at 67 pages, a single-set, one-act for 7 actors with flexible race and gender casting. Story concept co-created with Taylor Couch, who also created the original set layout design. |
November, 2020
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PLAYWRITING - Finished the 1st Draft of a new fight show, BB and Tango and the Apocalypse and Fun! A two-act play specifically created for stage combat enthusiasts and a large cast of fighters. Story concept co-created with Taylor Couch. The script is written in a way that all major characters can be played by an actor of any race or gender. |
October, 2020
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PLAYWRITING - Finished the 3rd Draft of Or Forever Hold Your Peace, the script is officially ready for rehearsal! Who knows when it will be safe to gather again, but this script will be waiting when it is. Huge thanks to my collaborators Taylor Couch and Jenn Mikitka for their help on the script and their continued collaboration creating the choreography! |
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PLAYWRITING - Taylor Couch (pictured) and I spent 7 hours doing a writers room, developing a full plot outline for a new play! This post-apocalyptic fight show's working title is, BB and Tango and the Apocalypse and Fun.
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PLAYWRITING - At the end of the month, we did another 6 hour writers room for another script. The family farm, the old family cemetery there, the recently deceased, and some county burial laws that put those still alive in a tough spot. Shoutout to the librarians at the Carnegie Libraries of Pittsburgh, who have already been immensely helpful on the research side of this project. Taylor and I have been hunting through state/county burial laws, hilariously odd PDFs, and are looking to interview county health officers about the particularities of their duties, in relation to private land burials.
September, 2020
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COMPANY - Two fresh logos to share from our resident graphic designer, Jenn Mikitka.
SPACE - Got the stage weapons out, two kickboxing bags in the space, and some tea and blankets; getting ready for Fall. |
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August, 2020
PLAYWRITING - 1st Draft completed of Or Forever Hold Your Peace, the wedding reception dancetheatre show!
Now I move into the feedback stage and major edits for Draft 2.
Now I move into the feedback stage and major edits for Draft 2.
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SPACE - Big Storm continues to take shape! We built up the space to the point where we can rehearse and train and then hang out. It's extra cozy with our mood lighting, new tea station, and big couches and carpeting in the back section.
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July, 2020
SPACE - Big Storm is coming along, having a blast getting the space together. After we did the initial clean and move-in in June, this month we tackled getting our floor in!
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June, 2020
SPACE - WE GOT A THEATRE SPACE! Signed a lease for a wonderful, wide-open 1,400 sq ft. space in the XFactory (North Point Breeze area, Pittsburgh). This has been a dream for a long while. And while the timing is strange, not being able to gather safely in small numbers, Taylor, Jenn, and I will be taking advantage of the time to get the space all ready to go for when the time is right to bring people in!
I have a lot of dreams and plans for this space. Fight lab, performance space, grand theatre experiments, physical training, and safe comfy hangout.
This is also a great time to announce that we are officially identifying ourselves as a theatre company:
BIG STORM PERFORMANCE COLLABORATIVE.
We will be working towards non-profit status in the coming months and sharing more info about who the company is and what we're all about. Big Storm is: Taylor Couch, Jenn Mikitka, José Pérez IV, and the artists and collaborators who have made this theatre work over the last 2 years possible!
I have a lot of dreams and plans for this space. Fight lab, performance space, grand theatre experiments, physical training, and safe comfy hangout.
This is also a great time to announce that we are officially identifying ourselves as a theatre company:
BIG STORM PERFORMANCE COLLABORATIVE.
We will be working towards non-profit status in the coming months and sharing more info about who the company is and what we're all about. Big Storm is: Taylor Couch, Jenn Mikitka, José Pérez IV, and the artists and collaborators who have made this theatre work over the last 2 years possible!
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NEW SHOW - Started working in earnest on both the script and dance choreography for a new dancetheatre production, working title: Or Forever Hold Your Peace. All about a wedding reception and some of the fringe people attending. The ex of the bride, the wedding planner re-thinking their career, a serial wedding crasher trying to forget their loveless marriage, and more. The loose plan is to get the script and choreography completed during this lock-down phase, and hopefully things time out right that the pre-production materials are completed right when it's safe to get a small cast in to rehearse!
May, 2020
PLAYWRITING - Finished writing the first draft of my new play, working title "[INSERT CATCHPHRASE]"! It has a long ways to go - much revising, reworking, and especially game play-testing. But I'm very enthusiastic about this one; it looks like it will be really challenging to perform, different every night, and a real riot for the cast and audience. (One of the few silver linings of coronavirus lockdown is the concentrated writing time, mostly as healthy distraction.)
April, 2020
COVID-19 - My day job is as a Simulation Educator at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, I was tasked with creating a PPE Don & Doff course that matched CDC guidelines, a training made available to any of the VAPHS hospital staff. The trick was to run this course without using any real PPE, in order to conserve precious resources. Using the DIY crafting skillset I've acquired from years of theatre, I was able to make mock PPE for this course that I taught.
I need to give a huge shout out to all of the volunteers, both at the VA and outside, who helped to craft a mountain of the single-use mock PPE so that all of the hospital learners could have items for hands-on practice. I couldn't have done it without this incredible network of helpers. This was a wildly stressful time, but I am proud that I was able to contribute something and to help keep our hospital staff safe.
Below are the How-To videos for crafting this mock PPE. Please use it or share with anyone who would find it useful.
**Mock PPE is for training only - not made for protection against COVID-19.
I need to give a huge shout out to all of the volunteers, both at the VA and outside, who helped to craft a mountain of the single-use mock PPE so that all of the hospital learners could have items for hands-on practice. I couldn't have done it without this incredible network of helpers. This was a wildly stressful time, but I am proud that I was able to contribute something and to help keep our hospital staff safe.
Below are the How-To videos for crafting this mock PPE. Please use it or share with anyone who would find it useful.
**Mock PPE is for training only - not made for protection against COVID-19.
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PLAYWRITING - Finished the third and final draft of "Sub-Par". It is officially ready for rehearsal! (Though who knows when it will be safe again to be in a rehearsal room). In the meantime, I'm sharing the play with collaborators and theatre colleagues who are interested in reading it.
The play has parts written specifically for a trans male actor, non-binary actor, and people of color. My dream is that the play will be produced at universities, providing roles for diverse young actors specifically written for them (rather than having to always "fit into" roles written for or typically performed by cis caucasian people - which can still be great! But it's really a whole other feeling being cast as a character who's description actually matches you and your life.) I hope to spread "Sub-Par" around the country, and I hope it's a positive addition to the theatre community. Plus, the production teams will inevitably get to eat a whole bunch of sandwiches.
PLAYWRITING - Began working on a new play, working title "[INSERT CATCHPHRASE]". A ton of improv games, but it's also about Prohibition mobsters, but it's also like long-form-audience-generated-madlibs. Writing's going well, so hopefully this weird little gremlin of a script will be ready for play testing once it's safe to be with collaborators again.
The play has parts written specifically for a trans male actor, non-binary actor, and people of color. My dream is that the play will be produced at universities, providing roles for diverse young actors specifically written for them (rather than having to always "fit into" roles written for or typically performed by cis caucasian people - which can still be great! But it's really a whole other feeling being cast as a character who's description actually matches you and your life.) I hope to spread "Sub-Par" around the country, and I hope it's a positive addition to the theatre community. Plus, the production teams will inevitably get to eat a whole bunch of sandwiches.
PLAYWRITING - Began working on a new play, working title "[INSERT CATCHPHRASE]". A ton of improv games, but it's also about Prohibition mobsters, but it's also like long-form-audience-generated-madlibs. Writing's going well, so hopefully this weird little gremlin of a script will be ready for play testing once it's safe to be with collaborators again.
March, 2020
PLAYWRITING - Finished the full first draft of my two-act play, "Sub-Par". A tight-knit group of misfits who run a submarine sandwich shop in conservative mid-Michigan get a new owner, and he kind of sucks. A secret recipe, raccoon attacks, and only one dance break I promise. It's a script I've been working on for a little over two years and I'm so thrilled that it's complete (sort of)! The draft has been sent to a group of trusted readers, feedback sessions and revisions begin in late March.
February, 2020
PERFORMANCE - We had a two-week run of our new dancetheatre show, "Get Over Here and Say That to My Face", built off of the 30min show we presented at Glitterbox in August. An intimate/packed basement show with a book dance, improv games, and a corporate PowerPoint presentation.
Huge thanks to The Ministry for hosting us!
Huge thanks to The Ministry for hosting us!
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"Get Over Here and Say That to My Face" cast and crew. L to R: E Forney, Micaela Corn, José Pérez IV, Taylor Couch, Jess Malandro, Phillip Fry, Jenn Mikitka |
January, 2020
Image created by Jenn Mikitka (graphic designer, assistant director)
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REHEARSALS - In the final stages of putting together "Get Over Here and Say That to My Face". Performing at The Ministry, Feb 7, 8, 14, 15. |
December, 2019
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REHEARSALS - Began official rehearsals for "Get Over Here and Say That to My Face"! Most of the same crew from the last dance theatre show, expanding the piece to make an approx. 1 hour performance. |
October - November, 2019
CHOREOGRAPHY - Actively working on new choreography for "Get Over Here and Say That to My Face", an expansion of our last dance theatre show. Set to perform in Feb 2020.
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TRAINING - Capoeira Tuesdays started up with the crew! Had fun teaching this form that I love very much.
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September, 2019
VIDEO - A segment from "Say That to My Face, and other dances". For your viewing pleasure.
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August, 2019
PERFORMANCE - We performed our new dancetheatre show "Say That to My Face, and other dances" at the Glitterbox Theater as part of Double Feature, sharing the night with Peter Kosloski and Mark Sepe's "Goodnight, Barry!" It needs to be said that we rehearsed with this cast for just 1.5 weeks and put together a really great show. I am so lucky to work with such talented, dedicated artists.
Show poster designed by Jenn Mikitka
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"Say That to My Face, and other dances" cast and crew. L to R: Jess Malandro, Shannon Donovan, Micaela Corn, Phillip Fry, Taylor Couch, José Pérez IV, Jenn Mikitka, E Forney.
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July, 2019
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CONFERENCE - I presented two sessions on my passion project, "Fight Choreography & Simulation: Restraining Aggressive Standardized Patients" and co-presented two sessions on my colleague's custom built mannequin, "Stemming the Red Tide: Creating a Low Cost Manikin to Treat Massive Variceal Bleeding". SimOps 2019 in Norfolk, VA; presented by the Society for Simulation in Healthcare. 
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June, 2019
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TRAINING - Ran weekly "Punchies" sessions, teaching kickboxing to the crew! April - July 
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May, 2019
PERFORMANCE - Wrote and performed an original audience-assisted monologue, "You and I" at the Glitterbox 10 Minute Play Festival.
March, 2019
PERFORMANCE - "Dance Show: A Dance Show" had an incredible run at The Glitterbox Theater!! Packed, energetic houses; audience-generated dances; enough laughter for a lifetime.
Show poster designed by Jenn Mikitka
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"Dance Show: A Dance Show" cast. 1st Row, L to R: Jenn Mikitka, Madalyn Lenahan, Taylor Couch, Sarah Friedlander, Mathias Vitullo, Micaela Corn, Sarah "Sims" Erwin. 2nd Row, L to R: Peri Walker, Phillip Fry, José Pérez IV, Robert Pell.
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February, 2019
REHEARSALS - Rehearsals are underway for "Dance Show: A Dance Show"! Performances run at the Glitterbox Theater March 1-2, 8-9.
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January, 2019
NEW JOB - Proud to announce that I've been hired as a full-time Simulation Educator at the VA Pittsburgh Hospital's new Simulation Center! I had been five months into a one-year Fellowship with them, but this job opened up and I guess I hadn't messed up too terribly, so I landed the promotion.
Focusing on behavioral health simulations and working with standardized patients (medical "actors"). Currently working on incorporating stage combat techniques into SP training for hands-on restraints, when a patient becomes aggressive/violent. I hope to expand this further and make a positive impact on mental/behavioral health training in the US! Goood stuff.
NEW SHOW - The new dance show (title TBD) has been cast! The beautiful ensemble: Micaela Corn, Sarah Sims Erwin, Phillip Fry, Madalyn Lenahan, Jenn Mikitka, Mathias Murphy, Robert Pell, Peri Walker, José Pérez IV, Taylor Couch, Sarah Friedlander.
Focusing on behavioral health simulations and working with standardized patients (medical "actors"). Currently working on incorporating stage combat techniques into SP training for hands-on restraints, when a patient becomes aggressive/violent. I hope to expand this further and make a positive impact on mental/behavioral health training in the US! Goood stuff.
NEW SHOW - The new dance show (title TBD) has been cast! The beautiful ensemble: Micaela Corn, Sarah Sims Erwin, Phillip Fry, Madalyn Lenahan, Jenn Mikitka, Mathias Murphy, Robert Pell, Peri Walker, José Pérez IV, Taylor Couch, Sarah Friedlander.
December, 2018
SIMULATION - I launched a major project at my work as a Simulation Fellow at the VA Pittsburgh, a training for standardized patients (medical "actors") to be physically restrained in a behavioral emergency simulation without harming themselves or learners. Two behavioral specialists and I successfully trained a group of 8 highly experienced SPs. No injuries were reported. The first group of learners (hospital staff) will run through a simulation utilizing these trained SPs in early 2019. As far as we know, this is the first training of its kind to run in the US!
AUDITION NOTICE- Auditions for “Knees Over Toes” (working title), a new dance theatre production, will be held Sat Jan 12, 1pm-4pm and Sun Jan 13, 6pm-8pm at the Glitterbox Theater (460 Melwood Ave, 1st Floor).
This show will have the feel and look of a memorable dance music video (think “Single Ladies” and “Thriller”) while maintaining an atmosphere of laid-back fun. Extensive dance training is not required! The choreography is being made specifically to be achievable and enjoyable for any performer who likes to dance, not necessarily professional dancers. The only prerequisite is that you like to boogie. Director: José Pérez IV Co-Directors: Taylor Couch & Sarah Friedlander
AUDITION NOTICE- Auditions for “Knees Over Toes” (working title), a new dance theatre production, will be held Sat Jan 12, 1pm-4pm and Sun Jan 13, 6pm-8pm at the Glitterbox Theater (460 Melwood Ave, 1st Floor).
This show will have the feel and look of a memorable dance music video (think “Single Ladies” and “Thriller”) while maintaining an atmosphere of laid-back fun. Extensive dance training is not required! The choreography is being made specifically to be achievable and enjoyable for any performer who likes to dance, not necessarily professional dancers. The only prerequisite is that you like to boogie. Director: José Pérez IV Co-Directors: Taylor Couch & Sarah Friedlander
October, 2018
DANCE THEATRE - Began creating choreography for a new dance theatre project with collaborators Sarah Friedlander and Taylor Couch. The aim is to perform the piece in early 2019 with a cast of 10 performers!
September, 2018
FILM - I shot and edited a dance audition video for my dear friend and collaborator, Sarah Friedlander.
August, 2018
"All the Fights!" cast (missing Adam Rutledge and Fight Assistant Ariana Starkman)
PERFORMANCE - Presented All the Fights! as part of the Pearl Diving Movement Residency Showcase on Aug 30th. We shared the night with MICHIYAYA Dance, the other Residency company. It was a packed audience and very well received! Looking forward to expanding the show and presenting a full-length work in the future.
RESIDENCY - Began an intense month of experimenting, supported by the Pearl Diving Movement Residency. Martial arts training, sword work, and too many hours of sound editing. The space at Pearl Arts Studio is immaculate and the support from the staff is incredible. A really unique, fantastic opportunity - I'm very grateful.
Fighters: Claire Sabatine, Sarah Friedlander, Taylor Couch, Sarah Carleton, Shannon Donovan, Adam Rutledge.
Fight Assistant: Ariana Starkman
RESIDENCY - Began an intense month of experimenting, supported by the Pearl Diving Movement Residency. Martial arts training, sword work, and too many hours of sound editing. The space at Pearl Arts Studio is immaculate and the support from the staff is incredible. A really unique, fantastic opportunity - I'm very grateful.
Fighters: Claire Sabatine, Sarah Friedlander, Taylor Couch, Sarah Carleton, Shannon Donovan, Adam Rutledge.
Fight Assistant: Ariana Starkman
July, 2018
FILM - Filmed and edited "Dance Piece, France Priest"; it will be submitted to the NYC Dance on Camera Festival for consideration!
WORK - Began my one-year Fellowship in Advanced Clinical Simulation with the VA Hospital Pittsburgh. As part of the Education Department, I will spend a year learning exactly how a simulation center is run, acting as a consult for staff members developing simulation trainings, and developing my own projects to advance health care education using simulation tools like virtual reality, standardized patients, and high-fidelity mannequins.
FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY - Created and directed the violence for "GLORIA" by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, presented by Hatch Arts Collective, Director Adil Mansoor. The production included unarmed stage combat as well as firearms safety.
WORK - Began my one-year Fellowship in Advanced Clinical Simulation with the VA Hospital Pittsburgh. As part of the Education Department, I will spend a year learning exactly how a simulation center is run, acting as a consult for staff members developing simulation trainings, and developing my own projects to advance health care education using simulation tools like virtual reality, standardized patients, and high-fidelity mannequins.
FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY - Created and directed the violence for "GLORIA" by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, presented by Hatch Arts Collective, Director Adil Mansoor. The production included unarmed stage combat as well as firearms safety.
June, 2018
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FESTIVAL - I presented two pieces at the Glitterbox 10 Minute Play Festival; "Empanadas" which I wrote and directed, and "Dance Piece, France Priest" which I choreographed (with help from collaborators), directed, and performed in! It was a wonderful night of new theatre. I am so grateful to the team at Glitterbox and to all of my performers and collaborators. (See videos in the sidebar) RESIDENCY - Thrilled to announce that I have been chosen as the Fall 2018 Pearl Diving Movement Residency Local Artist! This is a generously funded residency that provides rehearsal space, mentoring, and technical support through the entire month of August, allowing me to build a new fight theatre show. The project will be called All the Fights! and will have a public Showcase on August 30th, 2018. |
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May, 2018
Production still from Moriah Ella Mason's "Soft Block", performed at the New Moves 9 Festival, May 19 2018.
Photo credit: Kelly Strayhorn Theater.
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WORK - Very proud to announce that I've accepted a one-year Advanced Fellowship in Clinical Simulation with VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System! Starting in July, I'll be working full-time towards improving how simulation-based training is used in healthcare education, with the VA population specifically in mind. I'm excited (and a bit daunted) to bring my fun mix of skills as a fight choreographer, theatre educator, and standardized patient to this fascinating opportunity.
<< DANCING - Performed in Moriah Ella Mason's "Soft Block" at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater's New Moves 9 Festival. The piece was about protest, the policing of bodies, and human barricades. EDUCATION/WORK - As a Standardized Patient, I portrayed two patient profiles for Pitt's Physician Assistant program in Harmar, PA - with Grodin Professional Simulators. |
April, 2018
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CREATING - Finished choreographing my new dancetheatre project, "Dance Piece, France Priest"! Rehearsals have been wildly productive and so much fun. Looking forward to putting the whole thing together in May!
WRITING - Completed a one-act play, "Empanadas"; a short, slightly insane comedy about searching for the perfect empanada in all the wrong places. READING - Held a reading for my new one-act, "Empanadas". Performed by the incredibly talented Matthew Vitullo, Dante Álmos Horvát, and Jenn Mikitka. The actors were fantastic and the feedback I received was most helpful. UPCOMING PRODUCTIONS - Both my dancetheatre project, "Dance Piece, France Priest", and my one-act, "Empanadas", have been accepted to the Glitterbox Theater's Annual 1o Minute Play Fest, June 24th! DANCING - I was cast in Moriah Ella Mason's new dance project, "Soft Block", exploring civil disobedience. It will be performed at The Kelly Strayhorn Theater's 9th Annual NewMoves Contemporary Dance Festival, May 18-19. EDUCATION/WORK - Began working as a Standardized Patient for Grodin Professional Simulators. |
Rehearsal still from "Dance Piece, France Priest"
L to R: Dante Álmos Horvát, Jenn Mikitka, and Matthew Vitullo. Reading of "Empanadas".
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March, 2018
TEACHING - Guest Lecture at the University of Pittsburgh. Had a lot of fun with the Dept of Theatre Arts' Acting III class, developing the physical score and fight choreography for the opening brawl in Romeo and Juliet.
CREATING - Working hard on a new dancetheatre project! Have gathered the dancers/collaborators, reserved space, and our first rehearsal is April 1. Very excited to be creating with people again; since starting grad school I haven't taken on a significant project of my own like this. Incredibly happy to be back in the zone.
TRAINING - Started kickboxing training at Stout gym in Pittsburgh's Strip District. Needed some more martial arts in my life after the historical longsword course ended at Broken Plow.
CREATING - Working hard on a new dancetheatre project! Have gathered the dancers/collaborators, reserved space, and our first rehearsal is April 1. Very excited to be creating with people again; since starting grad school I haven't taken on a significant project of my own like this. Incredibly happy to be back in the zone.
TRAINING - Started kickboxing training at Stout gym in Pittsburgh's Strip District. Needed some more martial arts in my life after the historical longsword course ended at Broken Plow.
February, 2018
Photo by player Emily Forney
EDUCATION/WORK - Continuing to work with Robert Morris University's Nursing program, portraying Intensive Care Unit cases.
WRITING - Been pouring a lot of time/energy/research into a new script, as well as interviewing a number of people as to better help me portray life experiences that are not my own. Hoping to have a solid draft ready in the next few months so that I can get some collaborators together for a reading!
GAME CRAFTING - Ran a Dungeons & Dragons session, incorporating a number of real-world puzzles/tasks (like navigating a suspended knife through a maze of glasses without making a sound). This month I have been developing a version of D&D that is significantly simplified, specifically aimed at making gameplay as easy as possible for brand new players. >>>>
January, 2018
STAGE COMBAT - Taught an Intro to Stage Combat:Unarmed workshop along with Certified Teacher Paul Ray for the Moishe House Jewish young adult group, held at Rodef Shalom Temple.
TRAINING - Began an Intro to Historical German Longsword at Broken Plow Western Martial Arts.
EDUCATION/WORK - As a Standardized Patient, portraying cases with complex emotions for Pitt's Advanced Medical Interviewing course. Cases included distress surrounding sexual orientation, violence, and drug use. Also working with Robert Morris University's Nursing program, portraying Intensive Care Unit cases.
TRAINING - Began an Intro to Historical German Longsword at Broken Plow Western Martial Arts.
EDUCATION/WORK - As a Standardized Patient, portraying cases with complex emotions for Pitt's Advanced Medical Interviewing course. Cases included distress surrounding sexual orientation, violence, and drug use. Also working with Robert Morris University's Nursing program, portraying Intensive Care Unit cases.
December, 2017
EDUCATION/WORK - Busy month of work as a Standardized Patient for both Robert Morris University and Pitt, doing some intense cases for Nursing programs and testing for first year medical students. Additionally, working many hours as a Clue Master at Escape the Room Southside.
November, 2017
CREATING - I finished writing The Ride-Along 2: An Immersive Theatre Adventure! It was a very difficult process, my poor health did not make it easy on me, but I am very proud to have it done and sent. I was asked by my collaborator on the first Ride-Along, Deanna Braine, to write this sequel, after a great run of the show at the Asheville, NC Fringe Festival 2017, led by Deanna. This will mark the first time I write a full-length script and do not direct, choreograph, or perform in the subsequent production (though I do plan to send along some choreography sequences)!
Photo by Handerson Gomes - handersongomes.com From "DODO" by Bricolage Production Company - bricolagepgh.org
TEACHING - My 10-week Longsword stage combat course finished, and the students put on fantastic final scenes! I was very proud of the progress they made throughout the course and impressed by the students' self-awareness and work ethic.
Moving forward, I plan to find an indoor training space for my future courses. Hoping to teach an Unarmed course after the New Year!
PERFORMANCE - Bricolage's DODO, at the Carnegie Museums&Music Hall closed Nov 19th. We sold out all of our shows after the second week of performing! Here is a collection of articles and reviews about the show. >>>>
October, 2017
PERFORMANCE-
Bricolage Production Company's new immersive show, DODO, opened Oct 13th at the Carnegie Museums&Music Hall. It has been an incredible experience performing as Mancio in this unique, moving production.
Audience is granted access to spaces usually restricted to normal museum patrons. Several museum employees have come through as audience and I hear things like, "I've been working in this building for 25 years and I haven't seen about half of those places." The show runs until Nov 19th.
TEACHING - Led a second Longsword 101 workshop for Prof. Jeff Aziz's Honors Shakespeare course at Pitt.
September, 2017
TEACHING - Began teaching a 10-week stage combat course in Longsword. This is the first public course I've offered in Pittsburgh, the hope is to continuously teach these so that there is regular stage combat training in this city! I love living in PGH and now that I've finished grad school, I'm excited to contribute to the arts community here.
TEACHING - Led a Longsword 101 workshop for Prof. Jeff Aziz's Honors Shakespeare course at Pitt.
TEACHING - Led a Longsword 101 workshop for Prof. Jeff Aziz's Honors Shakespeare course at Pitt.
August, 2017
JOB - Was hired as a Clue Master at Escape the Room Southside, here in Pittsburgh! I will be running and setting up games - if you've never played an escape room before, I highly recommend it! A very unique and entertaining experience; especially wonderful for group of friends or family.
JOB - Hired as an instructor at Westinghouse Arts Academy, a new arts highschool in Wilmerding, PA! Brought on to teach Movement/Stage Combat and Acting! (Prepping material for lesson plans >>
JOB - Hired as an instructor at Westinghouse Arts Academy, a new arts highschool in Wilmerding, PA! Brought on to teach Movement/Stage Combat and Acting! (Prepping material for lesson plans >>
July, 2017
CASTING - Auditioned for Bricolage Theatre Production Company's new immersive show, DODO, and was cast! Rehearsals begin in October.
May-June, 2017
HEALTH - While relieved that I was able to finish grad school, my health continued to be a great challenge. During this time I received ECT (electrocunvulsive therapy) aka electroshock. ECT is not like you see in horror-movies set in the 1940's; now it's a standardized medical procedure in which the patient feels no pain, being put under anesthesia. It was a bit of a last resort, but I gave it the old college try.
ECT produced some unfortunate side-effects, the most prominent being memory loss (which has continued into Nov 2017 when I'm writing this). The treatment unfortunately only made things somewhat worse for me, so I stopped in late July. At that time I also weaned off of all antidepressant medications, deciding to try to tackle this thing without any of that in my system. Things have been up and very very down, but I've kept working at it. That seems to be the trick: one day at a time, stay distracted with good things.
ECT produced some unfortunate side-effects, the most prominent being memory loss (which has continued into Nov 2017 when I'm writing this). The treatment unfortunately only made things somewhat worse for me, so I stopped in late July. At that time I also weaned off of all antidepressant medications, deciding to try to tackle this thing without any of that in my system. Things have been up and very very down, but I've kept working at it. That seems to be the trick: one day at a time, stay distracted with good things.
April, 2017
GRAD SCHOOL - I successfully defended my thesis, The Athletic Actor: Contact Improv, Capoeira, and Grotowski-Based Acting Training in Conversation! Just a couple lingering research papers to complete and submit, and then I should be on my way to finishing this degree.
GRADUATION - Graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with an MFA in Performance Pedagogy! Was also awarded the 2017 MFA Graduate Teaching Award for accomplishments teaching undergrad courses while at Pitt.
GRADUATION - Graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with an MFA in Performance Pedagogy! Was also awarded the 2017 MFA Graduate Teaching Award for accomplishments teaching undergrad courses while at Pitt.
March, 2017
STAGE COMBAT - Served as an Intern at the annual Cease & Desist Stage Combat Workshop at Northern Kentucky University.
TEACHING - Taught an Intro to Unarmed stage combat workshop for a Intro to Performance class at Pitt.
GRAD SCHOOL - Final draft of my master's thesis, The Athletic Actor: Contact Improv, Capoeira, and Grotowski-Based Acting Training in Conversation, has been submitted to the thesis committee!
TEACHING - Taught an Intro to Unarmed stage combat workshop for a Intro to Performance class at Pitt.
GRAD SCHOOL - Final draft of my master's thesis, The Athletic Actor: Contact Improv, Capoeira, and Grotowski-Based Acting Training in Conversation, has been submitted to the thesis committee!
February, 2017
<<TEACHING - I led a 2 hour workshop on Broadsword Basics for undergrad Ariana Starkman's workshop series at the University of Pittsburgh.
ACTING - Performing as Vice Principal Panch, University of Pittsburgh's Mainstage The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee has opened! We will be running until Feb 19th, grab tickets here!
REVIEW - I received a nice shout-out in this review from Pittsburgh in the Round:
"A couple of standout performances are the Vice Principal, Doug Panch, played with a perfect sense of lust, leering and sick humor by MFA candidate Jose´ Perez IV."
"A couple of standout performances are the Vice Principal, Doug Panch, played with a perfect sense of lust, leering and sick humor by MFA candidate Jose´ Perez IV."
January, 2017
ACTING - Performed in Pitt's 24 Hour Redeye Play Festival! Played Ben/Bearnest in Ben McClymont & Corey Foreman's "Christ! An Erumpent (or; The Importance of Being Bearnest)". It was one of the most challenging and rewarding days of theatre I've had in some time. They wrote a very difficult piece to perform, but it was a great thrill rising up to the challenge - it was very well received!
December, 2016
AWARDS - The Deapartment of Graduate Studies has granted me a Dean's Tuition Scholarship to cover all of my tuition costs for my final semester of grad school! Incredibly grateful. And ready to get back to work!
ACTING - I've been cast in UP Stages Mainstage production of 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee as Vice Principal Doug Panch! This was the second Broadway show I ever saw and it blew me away with all of the comedic improvisation and general spirit of joy. Can't wait to get started!
ACTIVISM - Attended an incredible Town Hall meeting hosted by Pitt Theatre Arts on Equitable Casting and Diversity within the theatre world, held at the Charity Randall Theater. Many Pitt Theatre Arts faculty, alumn, and guest artists helped to run and facilitate the town hall. Incredibly positive discussions, I left feeling that forward momentum had really begun.
ACTING - I've been cast in UP Stages Mainstage production of 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee as Vice Principal Doug Panch! This was the second Broadway show I ever saw and it blew me away with all of the comedic improvisation and general spirit of joy. Can't wait to get started!
ACTIVISM - Attended an incredible Town Hall meeting hosted by Pitt Theatre Arts on Equitable Casting and Diversity within the theatre world, held at the Charity Randall Theater. Many Pitt Theatre Arts faculty, alumn, and guest artists helped to run and facilitate the town hall. Incredibly positive discussions, I left feeling that forward momentum had really begun.
November, 2016
HEALTH - Unfortunately I have been rather unwell in the last month or so. I live with major depressive disorder, been grappling with it since Nov 2014, and it has become especially harsh lately. I'm happy to say that I've been making the improvement of my health my top priority, but that has unfortunately taken me away from many other pursuits.
Hitting my 2 year anniversay of living with depression, I've found something to be grateful for admist this difficult disorder. I now have been exposed to a slice of the human experience that I before knew nothing about and, in fact, had many misconceptions about. It's a priviledge to be able to be open and vocal about depression and other forms of psychological distress. If I can make even a tiny difference in making these conditions less stigmatized, then these two years will have been worth it.
Be kind - there are so many people fighting battles each and every day and we seldom know it.
Hitting my 2 year anniversay of living with depression, I've found something to be grateful for admist this difficult disorder. I now have been exposed to a slice of the human experience that I before knew nothing about and, in fact, had many misconceptions about. It's a priviledge to be able to be open and vocal about depression and other forms of psychological distress. If I can make even a tiny difference in making these conditions less stigmatized, then these two years will have been worth it.
Be kind - there are so many people fighting battles each and every day and we seldom know it.
October, 2016
TRAINING - I've begun taking Improv Comedy classes with Woody Drennan of Uplanned Comedy. It's been so much fun thus far and suprisingly illuminating in terms of my own interests as an actor and teacher.
September, 2016
WRITING - I wrote a short one-act play for the Redeye Theatre Project's 24 hour Play Festival at Pitt. "Gaertner's Heating and Cooling" followed Vicki, the director of a local commercial, and her struggles working with two very large personalities. Stephan, dreaming of stardom, and Rae, her very recent ex-girlfriend. Directed by Lauryn Thomas, performed by Isabella Sigado, Alexa Moore, and Ben McClymont.
August, 2016
FILM - Acted in an instructional video demonstrating theatre exercises. Created as part of an initiative between the Theatre Arts and Dental departments at Pitt, to help teach dental students how to create a truthful connection and foster more empathy with their patients. Directed by Dennis Schebetta.
AUDITIONS - Auditioned for a music video for local rapper Light La Soul's single, "Faithful". I got the part! It will be a narrative music video with an espionage setting, featuring some combat! Slated to film in late September.
AUDITIONS - Auditioned for a music video for local rapper Light La Soul's single, "Faithful". I got the part! It will be a narrative music video with an espionage setting, featuring some combat! Slated to film in late September.
July, 2016
AWARDS - Upon completing three weeks of training, the Fight Masters of the SAFD granted me the James Finney Memorial Award "for the greatest determination in life and/or in stage combat".
CERTIFICATIONS - I received a certificate stating that I successfully passed the SAFD's Theatrical Firearms Safety Course. I successfully passed my fight tests and have now received certifications in all of the 8 weapons the SAFD offers. This was a big step towards the Teacher Certification Workshop which I hope to attend in two years.
CERTIFICATIONS - I received a certificate stating that I successfully passed the SAFD's Theatrical Firearms Safety Course. I successfully passed my fight tests and have now received certifications in all of the 8 weapons the SAFD offers. This was a big step towards the Teacher Certification Workshop which I hope to attend in two years.
June, 2016
TRAINING - I began my three weeks of training in the Advanced Actor Combatant track at the National Stage Combat Workshop in Winston-Salem, NC.
May, 2016
SCHOLARSHIP - I was selected to receive the sole scholarship offered by the Society of American Fight Directors to attend the National Stage Combat Workshop! This was my second year applying for the scholarship and I'm thrilled to finally have the opportunity to pursue intensive training at Nationals. My thanks to the generosity of the Society!
AWARDS - A nice write-up about the Baranger Excellence in Teaching Award, celebrating the three of us from the Theatre Arts department who won! http://www.play.pitt.edu/blog/theatre-arts-sweeps-teaching-awards
TRAINING - Attended the Allegheny Alley Fight Regional Stage Combat Workshop! It was a great turn-out this year. So great to meet other fighters and get to work with both new and familiar teachers.
AWARDS - A nice write-up about the Baranger Excellence in Teaching Award, celebrating the three of us from the Theatre Arts department who won! http://www.play.pitt.edu/blog/theatre-arts-sweeps-teaching-awards
TRAINING - Attended the Allegheny Alley Fight Regional Stage Combat Workshop! It was a great turn-out this year. So great to meet other fighters and get to work with both new and familiar teachers.
February, 2016
AWARDS - I won the Baranger Excellence in Teaching Award! I was one of 7 grad student instructors to receive this wonderful award and a $250 prize. This is truly an honor! I work very hard to provide quality, generous, compassionate instruction and it was very flattering to have that effort recognized.
It should be noted that 3 of the 7 award winners came from the Theatre Arts Department! My colleagues Vicki Hoskins and Julian Stetkevych also won. A testament to the incredible dedication of the Theatre Arts grads and the guidance from our faculty.
It should be noted that 3 of the 7 award winners came from the Theatre Arts Department! My colleagues Vicki Hoskins and Julian Stetkevych also won. A testament to the incredible dedication of the Theatre Arts grads and the guidance from our faculty.
January, 2016
AWARDS - I was again nominated this year for the Baranger Excellence in Teaching Award, awarded to graduate students who display exceptional teaching at the University of Pittsburgh. Big thanks to any of my students, classmates, or faculty who nominated me!
December, 2015
TEACHING - Fall classes have ended, the last month of work was beautiful, powerful. Intro to Performance finished with incredibly strong scenes. The Athletic Actor wrapped up with revelations and huge leaps forward. I was particularly moved by the love the Athletic Actor students showed me in the last week of class. The group secretly made cut-off t-shirts (my preferred training attire) that read "JOSÉ'S ARMY". And one student even got the course number tattooed onto her wrist!
TRAINING - Finishing out 2015 with 6 days of dance training at Earthdance's New Years Contact Improv Jam in beautiful western Massachusetts. Dance all day, fantastic vegetarian meals, community living, and the most wonderful people. This is a very special place and it has been imbued with so much love and mindfulness. Great way to start 2016.
PAST WORK - Here is a great highlights video from The Last Hurrah at Camp Maine!, an immersive/interactive show I performed in this past summer at Celebration Barn in South Paris, ME. Video by Michael Menes
TRAINING - Finishing out 2015 with 6 days of dance training at Earthdance's New Years Contact Improv Jam in beautiful western Massachusetts. Dance all day, fantastic vegetarian meals, community living, and the most wonderful people. This is a very special place and it has been imbued with so much love and mindfulness. Great way to start 2016.
PAST WORK - Here is a great highlights video from The Last Hurrah at Camp Maine!, an immersive/interactive show I performed in this past summer at Celebration Barn in South Paris, ME. Video by Michael Menes
November, 2015
TEACHING - I have had a workshop accepted to the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC), March 2016. It will be a hand-to-hand stage combat class titled "Stage Combat: Slow-Mo/Fast-Mo Speed Phrasing". We will be exploring how to execute choreography that purposefully manipulates time flow. (Think 300 or The Matrix).
FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY - Pitt Stages Mainstage A Midsummer Night's Dream, directed by Victoria Rhoades, opened! The lover's quarrel received much praise. The production had a very successful run, a truly incredible show.
FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY - Pitt Stages Mainstage A Midsummer Night's Dream, directed by Victoria Rhoades, opened! The lover's quarrel received much praise. The production had a very successful run, a truly incredible show.
October, 2015
INTERVIEW - University of Pittsburgh Stages did a really nice write-up about my work, my research, and the article I had published! It's truly wonderful to feel appreciated by the university you're working at.
ACTING - Performed a staged reading at City Theater's Young Playwright's Festival. Played "David" in 'Til Death Do Us Part written by Shady Side Academy senior Sarah Scheid. It was a wonderful night of theatre and a great honor to support these young playwrights!
FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY - Choreographed the Lover's Quarrel for Pitt Stages Mainstage A Midsummer Night's Dream, directed by Victoria Rhoades. Assisted by Mike Magliocca, Sean Harrington, and Ari Kraiman (fight captain).
ACTING - Performed a staged reading at City Theater's Young Playwright's Festival. Played "David" in 'Til Death Do Us Part written by Shady Side Academy senior Sarah Scheid. It was a wonderful night of theatre and a great honor to support these young playwrights!
FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY - Choreographed the Lover's Quarrel for Pitt Stages Mainstage A Midsummer Night's Dream, directed by Victoria Rhoades. Assisted by Mike Magliocca, Sean Harrington, and Ari Kraiman (fight captain).
September, 2015
TEACHING - The Fall Semester has started up at the University of Pittsburgh where I am teaching "Intro to Performance" (third time) and a course of my own creation "The Athletic Actor" in which we will be training dance and martial arts forms, exploring how the core concepts of those forms can be applied to performance/acting. I will be writing my MFA Thesis about the experience of constructing and teaching this course.
WORKSHOPS - Have been training some very committed undergrads in the art of stage combat on a weekly basis. Cross-training in kickboxing and grappling. A focus on broadsword technique.
FIGHT WORK - Trained actor Harry Hawkins, playing the role of "Elliot", in proper boxing technique and working drills on a heavy bag. For the Pitt Stages Mainstage production of Water by the Spoonful directed by Ricardo Vila-Roger. Additionally choreographed a fight for the show.
VOCAL PERFORMANCE - Performed/sang for the staged reading of Pins and Needles directed by Amanda Olmstead. This was presented at the U of Pitt Symposium "Spectacles of Labor: Performance and the Working Class" organized by Dr. Michelle Granshaw. This may be the first musical theatre performance I have been a part of since high school! It was a blast to sing again.
CREATING ORIGINAL WORK - Devised/directed a telekinetic-powers fight scene for the third annual Freshman Showcase presented by the Pitt Theatre Department. The whole showcase was a great success and our scene was quite the spectacle. This may have been the most telepathic groin shots I will ever choreograph (though I truly hope not).
WORKSHOPS - Have been training some very committed undergrads in the art of stage combat on a weekly basis. Cross-training in kickboxing and grappling. A focus on broadsword technique.
FIGHT WORK - Trained actor Harry Hawkins, playing the role of "Elliot", in proper boxing technique and working drills on a heavy bag. For the Pitt Stages Mainstage production of Water by the Spoonful directed by Ricardo Vila-Roger. Additionally choreographed a fight for the show.
VOCAL PERFORMANCE - Performed/sang for the staged reading of Pins and Needles directed by Amanda Olmstead. This was presented at the U of Pitt Symposium "Spectacles of Labor: Performance and the Working Class" organized by Dr. Michelle Granshaw. This may be the first musical theatre performance I have been a part of since high school! It was a blast to sing again.
CREATING ORIGINAL WORK - Devised/directed a telekinetic-powers fight scene for the third annual Freshman Showcase presented by the Pitt Theatre Department. The whole showcase was a great success and our scene was quite the spectacle. This may have been the most telepathic groin shots I will ever choreograph (though I truly hope not).
August, 2015
TRAINING - Traveled to Earthdance in Plainfield, MA for an open movement jam with live musicians. It was a beautiful space with an incredible gathering of musicians and dancers.
TRAINING - Participated in a one-week Immersive/Interactive intensive led by Jeff Wirth of NYC's Playing with Reality at Celebration Barn Theater in South Paris, ME.
PERFORMANCE - Playing "Hank Dobbs" in The Last Hurrah at Camp Maine, an immersive/interactive show taking place on the property of Celebration Barn in South Paris, ME. It's an incredible show in which most anything can happen. Campers both past and present have been invited back to Camp Maine for a big reunion and to determine the fate of Maine's longest summer camp.
FIGHT WORK - Working as the fight captain/coordinator for Camp Maine. We've put together quite a wild chase scene. Mini tramp stunts, wall runs, and a belay from the ceiling.
July, 2015
TRAINING - Finished a week of Movement Research's Summer Dance Intensive, Technique with Jeremy Nelson and Contact Improv with K.J. Holmes (a former instructor of mine from NYU)! 5 days of sweat, discovery, and play at Danspace Project housed in the historic St. Mark's Church.
TRAINING - Participated in a Contact Improv workshop at Alloy Studios in Pittsburgh. Contact jams are going to start being a regular thing in Pittsburgh! I'm a big support of this - if you're curious about contact improv please contact me (haha) by email and I can give you more info.
TRAINING - Participated in a Contact Improv workshop at Alloy Studios in Pittsburgh. Contact jams are going to start being a regular thing in Pittsburgh! I'm a big support of this - if you're curious about contact improv please contact me (haha) by email and I can give you more info.
June, 2015
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^^NEW WORK - Had the first work-in-progress showing of my new project "Welcome to the Table" (working title). Made in collaboration with Michela Micalizio. This is a performance event I am working on to be done around any dinner table
and flexible enough to host 4 to 25 guests! This work was supported by Celebration Barn Theater’s Artist Residency Program.
ARTIST RESIDENCY - Back at Celebration Barn in glorious South Paris, ME! Started my two week Residency making a new piece of theatre.
(A little look at my theatre laboratory >>>>>>
and flexible enough to host 4 to 25 guests! This work was supported by Celebration Barn Theater’s Artist Residency Program.
ARTIST RESIDENCY - Back at Celebration Barn in glorious South Paris, ME! Started my two week Residency making a new piece of theatre.
(A little look at my theatre laboratory >>>>>>
May, 2015
TEACHING - Was a facilitator of a Contact Improv workshop at the University of Pittsburgh. It was a wonderful afternoon of introducing fundamentals, getting really sweaty, and ending with a lively jam.
CHOREOGRAPHY - "The Boxer Believes", a short film by director Mark Solomon, was just released! I did the fight choreography for the film back in 2010.
TRAINING - Finished the grueling Fredricksen Stage Combat Intensive at Michigan State University. 22 hours of stage combat training over 3 days. I was lucky enough to study under Fight Master K. Jenny Jones for her Smallsword Intensive.
CHOREOGRAPHY - "The Boxer Believes", a short film by director Mark Solomon, was just released! I did the fight choreography for the film back in 2010.
TRAINING - Finished the grueling Fredricksen Stage Combat Intensive at Michigan State University. 22 hours of stage combat training over 3 days. I was lucky enough to study under Fight Master K. Jenny Jones for her Smallsword Intensive.
April, 2015
AWARDS - I was voted "Best Actor" for the Pitt Theatre Arts Awards 2014-2015 Season for my role of Teodoro in "Dog in the Manger"! Very touched, very honored. A fantastic way to end my first year at Pitt.
March, 2015
TEACHING- Taught two workshops at the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) in Chattanooga, TN. "Creating Site-Specific Theatre" and "Stage Combat: Telekinetic Powers Fighting". The stage combat workshop had about 100 students show up! We even had to turn away about 50 others. It was a great success!
FIGHT WORK - Did the fight choreography for Pitt Musical Theatre Club's production of Big Fish directed by Tim Kaniecki! Got in a choke lift, death by blowgun, and one solid kick to the shin. Opens April 9th!
MOVEMENT WORK - Worked as the Movement Consultant for Pitt Stages Mainstage production of Curse of the Starving Class directed by Cynthia Croot. There's a live lamb in the show. Unfortunately, none of my work was with the lamb. (You can imagine my disappointment...)
FIGHT WORK - Did the fight choreography for Pitt Musical Theatre Club's production of Big Fish directed by Tim Kaniecki! Got in a choke lift, death by blowgun, and one solid kick to the shin. Opens April 9th!
MOVEMENT WORK - Worked as the Movement Consultant for Pitt Stages Mainstage production of Curse of the Starving Class directed by Cynthia Croot. There's a live lamb in the show. Unfortunately, none of my work was with the lamb. (You can imagine my disappointment...)
February, 2015
AWARDS - I have been nominated for the Elizabeth Baranger Excellence in Teaching Award - this is an award given to grad students who teach in the Arts & Sciences department at Pitt, nominated by undergrad students! I am very flattered and touched.
ACTING - Dog in the Manger has opened! Have already received from great feedback. The Pittsburgh City Paper's Michelle Pilecki writes, "José Pérez IV blends near-acrobatic physicality with a realistic and affecting portrayal of Theodoro's confusion and succumber."
ARTS COMMUNITY - I was featured in a Dance Teacher Magazine article about Stephan Koplowitz's online Coursera course "Creating Site-Specific Dance". Steve is a fantastic teacher and choreographer, I had the pleasure to visit (and assist a bit) a project he was creating through Bates Dance Festival this past summer. His online course is FREE and fantastic! I highly suggest it.
ACTING - Dog in the Manger has opened! Have already received from great feedback. The Pittsburgh City Paper's Michelle Pilecki writes, "José Pérez IV blends near-acrobatic physicality with a realistic and affecting portrayal of Theodoro's confusion and succumber."
ARTS COMMUNITY - I was featured in a Dance Teacher Magazine article about Stephan Koplowitz's online Coursera course "Creating Site-Specific Dance". Steve is a fantastic teacher and choreographer, I had the pleasure to visit (and assist a bit) a project he was creating through Bates Dance Festival this past summer. His online course is FREE and fantastic! I highly suggest it.
January, 2015
PUBLICATIONS - An article I wrote was selected to be featured in The Fight Master, the Society of American Fight Director's twice annual publication! I am very proud of this. The article is titled "Fight Theatre: Site-Specific Fights and Audience-Combatants", it details many of my recent theatrical experiments dealing with site-specific fight choreography and allowing the audience to participate in a show's fight sequences.
ACTING - Rehearsals have started for Dog in the Manger and it's already a party. They have put together an incredible team for this production. I have been asked to grow out my facial hair and let my hair grow natural (no more mohawk). It's gonna be a whole new me, come February!
ACTING - Rehearsals have started for Dog in the Manger and it's already a party. They have put together an incredible team for this production. I have been asked to grow out my facial hair and let my hair grow natural (no more mohawk). It's gonna be a whole new me, come February!
December, 2014
ACTING - I landed a lead role in U of Pitt's Mainstage "Dog in the Manger" opening this upcoming Feb-March! I will be playing Teodoro in this Spanish Golden Age comedy, a secretary caught in a fiery tug-of-war OF LOVE.
EDUCATION - Successfully finished my first semester as a Master's student at U of Pittsburgh. The program and faculty have been incredible - glad to be a part of this program. Will be taking a well-deserved Winter Break then starting Spring semester Jan 5th! I'm teaching Acting I and Intro to Performance this upcoming semester.
EDUCATION - Successfully finished my first semester as a Master's student at U of Pittsburgh. The program and faculty have been incredible - glad to be a part of this program. Will be taking a well-deserved Winter Break then starting Spring semester Jan 5th! I'm teaching Acting I and Intro to Performance this upcoming semester.
November, 2014
TEACHING - Was notified that I was accepted as an Instructor for the 2015 Southeastern Theatre Conference in Chattanooga, TN this upcoming March! I will be teaching two workshops: Stage Combat - Telekinetic Powers and Creating Site-Specific Theatre. Very excited!
September, 2014
TEACHING - Was asked by the Performance Collective to teach a Stage Combat Workshop! Covered basic unarmed techniques including slaps, punches, jabs, and throat chops!
TEACHING - Began Fighter Training Sessions at University of Pittsburgh. Alternative workouts for those tired of the gym but all about having a sexy bod. We sweat, play games, and train in stage combat and martial arts. Mondays and Fridays, 5pm-6pm in B16-18 (Basement of Cathedral of Learning, U of Pitt). All are welcome! No experience needed.
FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY - Did the stage combat, lifts, and basic gun handling for "Criminal Hearts", produced by The Performance Collaborative. Performances are Sept 19-21 in The Studio Theatre at U of Pitt.
TEACHING - Began Fighter Training Sessions at University of Pittsburgh. Alternative workouts for those tired of the gym but all about having a sexy bod. We sweat, play games, and train in stage combat and martial arts. Mondays and Fridays, 5pm-6pm in B16-18 (Basement of Cathedral of Learning, U of Pitt). All are welcome! No experience needed.
FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY - Did the stage combat, lifts, and basic gun handling for "Criminal Hearts", produced by The Performance Collaborative. Performances are Sept 19-21 in The Studio Theatre at U of Pitt.
August, 2014
TEACHING- Was able to teach a mini-workshop in Creating Site-Specific Work at Celebration Barn! A grand chance to share my passion for this mode of theatre making.
MOVING/LIFE - Left Maine and moved to Pittsburgh, PA to start at the MFA in Performance Pedagogy program at University of Pittsburgh!
TEACHING - I will be teaching two courses of Intro to Performance this semester at U of Pitt and Assisting Acting I.
MOVING/LIFE - Left Maine and moved to Pittsburgh, PA to start at the MFA in Performance Pedagogy program at University of Pittsburgh!
TEACHING - I will be teaching two courses of Intro to Performance this semester at U of Pitt and Assisting Acting I.
July, 2014
"The Ride-Along: An Immersive Theatre Adventure for Two" got a shout-out as a part of Orlando Weekly's Best Theatre Trend of 2014!! Glad my show could contribute towards the innovative arts movement in Orlando, FL!
TRAINING - Through my Internship with Celebration Barn I was able to take 3 weeks of classes as a full-time student. What an incredible experience. 2-week Devising Intensive with Davis Robinson and Karen Montanaro. Special Guest Teachers Fritz Grobe, Avner The Eccentric Eisenberg, and Steve Ragatz. Then took Self With Others led by the amazing John Britton. It was three weeks of growing and stretching and creating. I am so thankful for the teachers and my fellow classmates.
NEW WORK - Made a number of new pieces/experiments including an audience-of-one experience in a shower stall, a projection fight with Catholic puns, and a show experienced in a moving car following an expert jogger.
TRAINING - Through my Internship with Celebration Barn I was able to take 3 weeks of classes as a full-time student. What an incredible experience. 2-week Devising Intensive with Davis Robinson and Karen Montanaro. Special Guest Teachers Fritz Grobe, Avner The Eccentric Eisenberg, and Steve Ragatz. Then took Self With Others led by the amazing John Britton. It was three weeks of growing and stretching and creating. I am so thankful for the teachers and my fellow classmates.
NEW WORK - Made a number of new pieces/experiments including an audience-of-one experience in a shower stall, a projection fight with Catholic puns, and a show experienced in a moving car following an expert jogger.
June, 2014
INTERNSHIP - Started my internship with Celebration Barn Theater in South Paris, Maine! I feed the chickens and gather eggs, tend the garden, yardwork galore, office work, and anything else I can to help facilitate the amazing teachers and keep the Barn running. It is gorgeous here, the people I meet are incredible, and I'm eating like a king.
TEACHING - I finished my Playwriting course with In The Limelight. It was a fantastic group of students, some really unique and exciting work came out of the class. Looking forward to inspired writing sure to come out of these young playwrights.
LIFE PLANS - Moved out of Orlando, road trip through North Carolina, Michigan, Pittsburgh, tried real hard to find the ghost town of Centralia, PA, and finally to Maine.
PORTLAND FRINGE - I ran tech for Amanda Huotari's one-woman comedy masterpiece, "The Soiree" at the Portland Fringe Theatre Festival.
INSPIRATION - Recently had the pleasure of seeing "We Run The Ship" performed by Mohawk Arts Collective at the Portland Fringe Festival. A choose-your-own-adventure, somewhat site-specific children's show. The performers were so generous, playful, and enthusiastic without being overbearing (a hard balance to strike in theatre for youth). I was very moved by the entire thing. A group to check out!
TEACHING - I finished my Playwriting course with In The Limelight. It was a fantastic group of students, some really unique and exciting work came out of the class. Looking forward to inspired writing sure to come out of these young playwrights.
LIFE PLANS - Moved out of Orlando, road trip through North Carolina, Michigan, Pittsburgh, tried real hard to find the ghost town of Centralia, PA, and finally to Maine.
PORTLAND FRINGE - I ran tech for Amanda Huotari's one-woman comedy masterpiece, "The Soiree" at the Portland Fringe Theatre Festival.
INSPIRATION - Recently had the pleasure of seeing "We Run The Ship" performed by Mohawk Arts Collective at the Portland Fringe Festival. A choose-your-own-adventure, somewhat site-specific children's show. The performers were so generous, playful, and enthusiastic without being overbearing (a hard balance to strike in theatre for youth). I was very moved by the entire thing. A group to check out!
May, 2014
THANK YOU FOR DONATING - An enormous, epic Thank You to those who successfully funded our Kickstarter campaign! Those generous individuals are:
- Adam Anderson (He's got the snap in his kick, the *pow* in his punch, and a song in his heart.)
- Andrew Foxx (Foxx News: Andrew just paraphrases what he heard on the news to you and it's awesome and perfect.)
- Melanie Glickman (HEY GLICKMAN. FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS, GLICKMANNN.)
- Scott&Lisa Kelly (Hometown heroes! Creators of the deliciousness of Bradley's Bistro in Saginaw, MI. GO. NOW.)
- Paul Crawshaw (I could give you 17 reasons why this man is the best, but you'll only need one.)
- Niina Pollari ("Uptown girl, she's been conquering the whole damn world.")
- Peter Stepniewicz (http://giphy.com/gifs/7xdJ6VPxehZPW)
- Sarah Elger ("She's beauty and she's grace - she'll punch you in the face.")
- Kickstarter (Can't stop, won't stop.)
- Thomas Lotze (It's a bird, it's a plane - it's a generous donor to experimental artistic endeavors.)
- Christine Henderson (No one is safe.)
- Jason Sperber (He knows, that you know, the he knows you know, you know?)
- Marianne Saint (Patron Saint of kicking-of-the-buttss)
- Jamie Tanner (More tan than you, I guarantee it.)
- AmyK (Amy Potassium, Queen of Bananas)
- Jonathan Grothe (Man with a plan - a plan for flan.)
- Mary Anne Braine (The Braines behind the operation)
- Krystina Ramos (Stunt driver/modern art enthusiast)
- Martin K Zitter (The man behind the mask)
- Isis Masoud (Swift of sword, kind of heart)
- Kyle Monteagudo (Don't look him in the eyes - cause you shall swoon.)
- Katherine Pan. (A shining knight. Light in the darkness. Humanity's one true hope.)
- Kim Shelton (From Jose: "Honestly, this man is one of the kindest, most goodhearted people I have ever had the pleasure to meet and work with in my life. It is people like him that make doing theatre worthwhile. It's about the people you meet.")
FRINGE AWARDS - "The Ride-Along" won the Patron's Pick Award in the BringYourOwnVenue category!! I couldn't be more proud of our team, this incredible, flexible, talented, and committed group of artists. This was a tough show to pull off, had to deal with a lot of issues that aren't present in typical theatre projects. But we did it and had a blast. Thank you so much to everyone who has come out to the show and supported us! And thanks to Orlando Fringe for taking such good care of the artists!
REVIEWS- "The Ride-Along" opened last night at Orlando Fringe! Sold out cars and a fantastic audience. In fact, our first two Recruits were reviewers! See what they had to say:
The Orlando Sentinel
Orlando Weekly
Ink19.com
and The Daily City
FRINGE RESPONSE- We were asked to extend our run as part of Patron's Pick! Added another run of shows Monday, May 26th 6:30pm-9pm. Purchase Tickets here. All shows 3persons to a car. They are going fast, so act now!
FRINGE FESTIVAL - "The Ride-Along" has SOLD OUT!! We were thrilled by the news, but bummed that there were people who still wanted to experience the show who couldn't. So we introduced SQUEEZE SHOWS. Adding a third person to each car (as long as the original two ticketholders approved). 4 out of our 6 shows last night were Squeeze Shows!
SUPPORT FIGHT THEATRE - Please consider donating to our Kickstarter Campaign. $650 goal covers out-of-pocket expenses for "The Ride-Along", $1300 allows us to pay our talented/generous artists! Please help support this unique theatre endeavor so we can do it again and again (probably in your hometown). Update: Successfully funded!
The Orlando Sentinel
Orlando Weekly
Ink19.com
and The Daily City
FRINGE RESPONSE- We were asked to extend our run as part of Patron's Pick! Added another run of shows Monday, May 26th 6:30pm-9pm. Purchase Tickets here. All shows 3persons to a car. They are going fast, so act now!
FRINGE FESTIVAL - "The Ride-Along" has SOLD OUT!! We were thrilled by the news, but bummed that there were people who still wanted to experience the show who couldn't. So we introduced SQUEEZE SHOWS. Adding a third person to each car (as long as the original two ticketholders approved). 4 out of our 6 shows last night were Squeeze Shows!
SUPPORT FIGHT THEATRE - Please consider donating to our Kickstarter Campaign. $650 goal covers out-of-pocket expenses for "The Ride-Along", $1300 allows us to pay our talented/generous artists! Please help support this unique theatre endeavor so we can do it again and again (probably in your hometown). Update: Successfully funded!
April, 2014
GRAD SCHOOL - I was accepted to both Towson and University of Pittsburgh's MFA Programs!! It was an incredibly hard decision, but I can now announce that this fall I will be attending U of Pitt and pursuing an MFA in Performance Pedagogy with a focus in Stage Combat and Site-Specific Performance. Thank you to all who supported me along the way and to all the amazing artists I had the pleasure of meeting through this process.
FRINGE FESTIVAL - We are bringing "The Ride-Along" to the Orlando Fringe Festival! Buy Tickets here
STAGE COMBAT - Finished a two week intensive Skills Proficiency Class with Certified Teacher Dan Granke and Advanced Actor Combatant Robert Aronowitz. Successfully tested in Single Sword and Quarterstaff and did Renewals in Unarmed, Knife, and Broadsword. Update: Received Advanced Passes in all 5 tests!! Huge thanks to my very talented partners.
PERFORMING - Wrapped "Appointment" in Phoenix, AZ! An eclectic group of audience members came out for this one-on-one theatre and each person brought something new to the performance. This mode of theatre is always exhilarating, exhausting, and chock full of lessons (as a performer and a humanperson). Many thanks to all the beautiful artists I had the privilege to work with. Directed by Aaron Landsman, a part of ASU Gammage's BEYOND Series.
FRINGE FESTIVAL - We are bringing "The Ride-Along" to the Orlando Fringe Festival! Buy Tickets here
STAGE COMBAT - Finished a two week intensive Skills Proficiency Class with Certified Teacher Dan Granke and Advanced Actor Combatant Robert Aronowitz. Successfully tested in Single Sword and Quarterstaff and did Renewals in Unarmed, Knife, and Broadsword. Update: Received Advanced Passes in all 5 tests!! Huge thanks to my very talented partners.
PERFORMING - Wrapped "Appointment" in Phoenix, AZ! An eclectic group of audience members came out for this one-on-one theatre and each person brought something new to the performance. This mode of theatre is always exhilarating, exhausting, and chock full of lessons (as a performer and a humanperson). Many thanks to all the beautiful artists I had the privilege to work with. Directed by Aaron Landsman, a part of ASU Gammage's BEYOND Series.
March, 2014
PERFORMING - Performing/assistant directing "Appointment" part of Arizona State University Gammage BEYOND Series. Visit Gammage's Webpage for tickets and additional info! I'm working with some incredibly talented performers and generous teaching artists who have invited me to ASU performance classes to train with the students!
TEACHING - Taught "Stage Combat: Basic Unarmed" for the NJ State Thespian Festival. A weekend of workshops; such fun, such learning! Was assisted by the intrepid Katie Polin, yoga instructor extraordinaire.
GRAD SCHOOL - Finished final interviews/auditions/teaching demos/original performances for Grad School programs! Met some wonderful people, got to perform one of my favorite monologues from Jordan Alper, and some very generous and talented performers helped me construct an apocalyptic first-person fight gauntlet performed via Skype! Your move, U of Pitt and Towson.
TEACHING - Taught "Stage Combat: Basic Unarmed" for the NJ State Thespian Festival. A weekend of workshops; such fun, such learning! Was assisted by the intrepid Katie Polin, yoga instructor extraordinaire.
GRAD SCHOOL - Finished final interviews/auditions/teaching demos/original performances for Grad School programs! Met some wonderful people, got to perform one of my favorite monologues from Jordan Alper, and some very generous and talented performers helped me construct an apocalyptic first-person fight gauntlet performed via Skype! Your move, U of Pitt and Towson.
SHOW CLOSES - Closed the first rendition of "The Ride-Along: An Immersive Theatre Adventure for Two"! We had such a blast making this unique piece of theatre. Been wanting to make a show in a car for a long time, so this is a dream come true.
FRINGE FESTIVAL - We are bringing "The Ride-Along" to the Orlando Fringe Festival! Check the website for info, tickets on sale in April.
February, 2014
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SHOW OPENS - The Ride-Along: An Immersive Theatre Adventure for Two opens March 2, closes March 11! Tickets are FREE. RSVP at Fight.Theatre@gmail.com |
ORIGINAL WORK - The Ride-Along: An Immersive Theatre Adventure for Two has begun rehearsal. Cross dresser sword fights, a Cockney thug stowed in the trunk, and a fight exploding out of a garage to start the show. It's been a blast thus far, looking forward to unleashing this project end of this month!
INSPIRATION - Sir Ken does it again. Great insight into teaching and education. AND he manages to incorporate theatre at 12:00 in the video. Naturally, I'm a big fan of that. Give it a look: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEsZOnyQzxQ
JOBS - Offered the role of "Kebab" for Universal Studio's Sindbad Adventure show. Unfortunately I had to turn it down due to schedule conflicts (i.e. performing The Ride-Along, teaching in NJ, performing and assistant directing in AZ.)
TEACHING - In The Limelight, a youth acting studio in Orlando, has offered me a job teaching a course in Playwriting and another in Stage Combat! Course begins mid-April. Thrilled by the opportunity and can't wait to get to work.
INSPIRATION - Sir Ken does it again. Great insight into teaching and education. AND he manages to incorporate theatre at 12:00 in the video. Naturally, I'm a big fan of that. Give it a look: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEsZOnyQzxQ
JOBS - Offered the role of "Kebab" for Universal Studio's Sindbad Adventure show. Unfortunately I had to turn it down due to schedule conflicts (i.e. performing The Ride-Along, teaching in NJ, performing and assistant directing in AZ.)
TEACHING - In The Limelight, a youth acting studio in Orlando, has offered me a job teaching a course in Playwriting and another in Stage Combat! Course begins mid-April. Thrilled by the opportunity and can't wait to get to work.
January, 2014
TEACHING - I'm now a Teaching Assistant under Rob Aronowitz at the University of Central Florida. Undergrad Stage Combat (unarmed and single sword). It rocks.
ORIGINAL WORK - Starting the new year off right, penned a new show, The Ride-Along: An Immersive Theatre Adventure for Two. This show places audiences of two in the back seat of a car driven by a pair of bounty hunters. Adventure ensues as the audience gets up close and personal with a night in the life of these enthusiastic hitmen. Look out for performances in Orlando, end of Feb - early April!
AUDITIONS - for The Ride-Along: An Immersive Theatre Adventure for Two. Looking for 7 flexible, enthusiastic performers thirsty to create innovative, unique theatre. Email fight.theatre@gmail.com to receive more info. Auditions are being held Jan 28, 29, 30 at 7pm-9pm each evening.
ORIGINAL WORK - Starting the new year off right, penned a new show, The Ride-Along: An Immersive Theatre Adventure for Two. This show places audiences of two in the back seat of a car driven by a pair of bounty hunters. Adventure ensues as the audience gets up close and personal with a night in the life of these enthusiastic hitmen. Look out for performances in Orlando, end of Feb - early April!
AUDITIONS - for The Ride-Along: An Immersive Theatre Adventure for Two. Looking for 7 flexible, enthusiastic performers thirsty to create innovative, unique theatre. Email fight.theatre@gmail.com to receive more info. Auditions are being held Jan 28, 29, 30 at 7pm-9pm each evening.
December, 2013
PERFORMANCE - Performed in Anti-Gravity's Winter Showcase. Performed an aerial cube sextet and wall-run harness. Was truly a wonderful experience.
EDUCATION - I've begun applying to Master's programs for Creating Original Work and Teaching. Took a roadtrip up to Maryland to visit University of Maryland and Towson University.
PHYSICAL WORK - Began training with Skydive SpaceCenter in Titusville, FL taking their AFF Course (AcceleratedFreeFall). After 7 successful test jumps I am now cleared to skydive solo!
EDUCATION - I've begun applying to Master's programs for Creating Original Work and Teaching. Took a roadtrip up to Maryland to visit University of Maryland and Towson University.
PHYSICAL WORK - Began training with Skydive SpaceCenter in Titusville, FL taking their AFF Course (AcceleratedFreeFall). After 7 successful test jumps I am now cleared to skydive solo!
November, 2013
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PROJECTS - Crafting helms! Making these has been a blast. Look for them in "The Lawn Show" and possibly in future hundred-person mass battles. >>>>>>>>>>>>> PERFORMANCE - Auditioned for and cast in Anti-Gravity's Winter Showcase! BOOKS - Recent favorite reads: "David and Goliath" by Malcolm Gladwell. "Humans of New York" by Brandon Stanton. "American Gods" by Neil Gaiman. "Do the Work!" by Steven Pressfield. PROJECTS - Beginnings of giant puppets! For the show to be ordered and performed on front lawns, lately called "The Lawn Show". >>>>>>>>> TRAINING - I have begun training rigorously with Anti-Gravity Orlando, a phenomenal aerial theater in Orlando. Training in silks, double bungee, lyra, cube, hammock, wall harness, handstand technique, and spanish web. |
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October, 2013
ART COMMUNITY - José and Fight Theatre co-founder Katie Polin attended the Without Walls Festival, an all site-specific performance festival, in San Diego, CA. The work was inspiring (namely "The Car Plays" and "Kamchatka") and the people were fantastic. Much love to the festival crew and the amazing work they did with this festival. Can't wait til WOW 2015.
NEW WORK - I have created two new scripts for Orlando projects. One is a show to be done at the foot of hospital beds, the other is an adventure show done on front lawns (the audience orders the show like a pizza and we come to them!) Look out for these new works before the year is out!
NEW WORK - I have created two new scripts for Orlando projects. One is a show to be done at the foot of hospital beds, the other is an adventure show done on front lawns (the audience orders the show like a pizza and we come to them!) Look out for these new works before the year is out!
September, 2013
LIFE PLANS - I have moved to Orlando, FL! Ready to continue making innovate theatre works (just around palm trees now). The next month holds a good amount of traveling. Visiting the island of Dominica, San Diego for the Without Walls Festival (all site-specific performance), and then to the Highlands Playhouse in North Carolina.
August, 2013
WORK REEL - New Fight Theatre Work Reel 2013 is up, showcasing Fight Theatre's epic endeavors. Now including footage from "The Battle of Taco Hill", "Street Mystery", and "Dr. Robert's Audio Tour".
VIDEO - New Action Reel 2013 is up highlighting José's stage combat/stunt work! Check it out.
VIDEO - Promo Video for "The Battle of Taco Hill" is now up! Huge thanks to everyone who worked on the show, came to see, and especially those who gave audience response.
LIFE PLANS - Moving to Orlando, FL in September. Pursuing stunt/theatre work and continuing to create epic site-specific theatre. Look out Florida!
NEW SHOW - "The Battle of Taco Hill" opens Aug 2nd! 3pm at The Grotto on The Hill behind the Mountainside Theater in Cherokee, NC.
ACTING - Performed the role of "Little Owl" at the Oconaluftee Indian Village in their "Time of War" historical reenactments.
ACTING - "Unto These Hills" finishes its 60+ show run Aug 17th! If you haven't seen it yet grab your tickets while there's still time!
VIDEO - New Action Reel 2013 is up highlighting José's stage combat/stunt work! Check it out.
VIDEO - Promo Video for "The Battle of Taco Hill" is now up! Huge thanks to everyone who worked on the show, came to see, and especially those who gave audience response.
LIFE PLANS - Moving to Orlando, FL in September. Pursuing stunt/theatre work and continuing to create epic site-specific theatre. Look out Florida!
NEW SHOW - "The Battle of Taco Hill" opens Aug 2nd! 3pm at The Grotto on The Hill behind the Mountainside Theater in Cherokee, NC.
ACTING - Performed the role of "Little Owl" at the Oconaluftee Indian Village in their "Time of War" historical reenactments.
ACTING - "Unto These Hills" finishes its 60+ show run Aug 17th! If you haven't seen it yet grab your tickets while there's still time!
July, 2013
FIGHT WORK - I was made FIGHT CAPTAIN of the battle reenactment "Time of War" at the Oconaluftee Indian Village.
FIGHT WORK- Now performing the part of The Iroquois in "Time of War". Wielding a tomahawk, knife, and single sword vs. tomahawk, knife, and rifle.
CREATING WORK- First draft of "The Battle of Taco Hill" finished! Began creating fight choreography and rehearsal with the cast. This zany fight show spectacular follows the daring adventures of the Wanderer and his newly taken caddy, William Taco, as they fight their way through a town of sneakthieves and ruffians. Sword duels jumping over streams! Found weapons like extension cord and a 9foot dowel rod! A knife fight in a bedroom and a grand mass battle on a hillside! Should be fun.
FIGHT WORK- Now performing the part of The Iroquois in "Time of War". Wielding a tomahawk, knife, and single sword vs. tomahawk, knife, and rifle.
CREATING WORK- First draft of "The Battle of Taco Hill" finished! Began creating fight choreography and rehearsal with the cast. This zany fight show spectacular follows the daring adventures of the Wanderer and his newly taken caddy, William Taco, as they fight their way through a town of sneakthieves and ruffians. Sword duels jumping over streams! Found weapons like extension cord and a 9foot dowel rod! A knife fight in a bedroom and a grand mass battle on a hillside! Should be fun.
June, 2013
ACTING- "Unto These Hills" opens! Our run goes till August 17. Purchase your tickets and come see the tale of the Cherokee!
FIGHT WORK- Hired to fight at the Oconaluftee Indian Village as a Cherokee Warrior in "Time of War". I am choke lifted, slammed, and dragged around. On the plus side I slaughter American soldiers trying to harm our Clan Mother. We perform Tues, Thurs, Sat at 12pm and 3pm.
ACTING- Played "Colin Kemp" in "Bells of Insanity" by Amanda Kohr and directed by Alex Towers as a part of the One-Acts Festival at The Canteen, Cherokee, NC.
FIGHT WORK- Hired as Fight Choreographer for Cherokee Historical Association's promotional shoot of "Unto These Hills". The commercial and fights will be shown throughout the area.
FIGHT WORK- Hired to fight at the Oconaluftee Indian Village as a Cherokee Warrior in "Time of War". I am choke lifted, slammed, and dragged around. On the plus side I slaughter American soldiers trying to harm our Clan Mother. We perform Tues, Thurs, Sat at 12pm and 3pm.
ACTING- Played "Colin Kemp" in "Bells of Insanity" by Amanda Kohr and directed by Alex Towers as a part of the One-Acts Festival at The Canteen, Cherokee, NC.
FIGHT WORK- Hired as Fight Choreographer for Cherokee Historical Association's promotional shoot of "Unto These Hills". The commercial and fights will be shown throughout the area.
May, 2013
ACTING- Rehearsals begin for "Unto These Hills"! Hard physical training in the morning followed by stage combat sessions with Fight Director Jake Guinn of RatPack Productions, then scene rehearsals for the rest of the day. Cherokee is beautiful: mountains and mist everywhere. The cast and crew are phenomenal and welcoming. Very blessed to be a part of this production.
FIGHT WORK- Made the FIGHT CAPTAIN for "Unto These Hills"!
FIGHT WORK- Made the FIGHT CAPTAIN for "Unto These Hills"!
April, 2013
LIFE PLANS- Moved from NYC and is preparing to head down to North Carolina to play Jake in "Unto These Hills".
FIGHT WORK - José and Katie Polin put the finishing touches on a duo fight reel. Check it out: Fight Reel
FIGHT WORK - José and Katie Polin put the finishing touches on a duo fight reel. Check it out: Fight Reel
March, 2013
LIFE PLANS - José is leaving NYC at the end of April! After 6 years in the BigApple it is time to move on towards other adventures.
ACTING JOB - First on the list is performing in "Unto These Hills" in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina with the Cherokee Historical Society. The 2,000 seat outdoor amphitheater in Cherokee, NC will house this fight heavy epic June 1 - Aug 17 , 2013.
ADVENTURE - From there I will be traveling a good deal. Sights set on Austin, Minneapolis, and Hawaii for the rest of the year. Unsure where he will settle down next - it's very possible he will be a nomadic artist for a bit! Either way, José will continue to make action packed theatre all along the way. See you on the battlefield.
ACTING JOB - First on the list is performing in "Unto These Hills" in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina with the Cherokee Historical Society. The 2,000 seat outdoor amphitheater in Cherokee, NC will house this fight heavy epic June 1 - Aug 17 , 2013.
ADVENTURE - From there I will be traveling a good deal. Sights set on Austin, Minneapolis, and Hawaii for the rest of the year. Unsure where he will settle down next - it's very possible he will be a nomadic artist for a bit! Either way, José will continue to make action packed theatre all along the way. See you on the battlefield.
Run Finished of
Street Mystery: An Audience-of-One Experience
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Check out the Promo Video!
- The Run was great, we all had an amazing time bringing this show to life on the streets of NYC. We had a fantastic audience - thanks to everyone who came out! - |
February, 2013
NEW SHOW - José and FIGHT THEATRE's newest endeavor, "Street Mystery: An Audience-of-One Experience" is written, cast, and choreographed. Rehearsals have begun and we are having blast discreetly rehearsing on the streets and in the stores of Greenwhich Village. Our thug fights and assassin ambush have so far not had the cops called on us, however at last fight rehearsal a rather large gentlemen, after seeing the ambush and our assassin run off, offered to, "..beat that guy down!" Have a feeling it's doing to be a good show.
"Street Mystery" goes up March 2,3 and 9,10! Show is free, RSVP required: Fight.Theatre@gmail.com
"Street Mystery" goes up March 2,3 and 9,10! Show is free, RSVP required: Fight.Theatre@gmail.com
January, 2013
Dr. Robert's Audio Tour (at the Met Museum)
Still Running! *Get your FREE tickets now!
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Tickets are *FREE* Email: Fight.Theatre@gmail.com to receive your free MP3 file and further instructions. Created in Collaboration with Katie Polin |
FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY - Choreographed unarmed and rapier fight scenes with Katie Polin for Theater in Asylum's new play, ¡Olé! Playing at Under St. Marks Theater January 2013-February 2013.
December, 2012
ZOMBIES: A Workshop finishes first Showing!
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ZOMBIES: A Workshop thrilled audiences at Downtown Art Dec 1-2 in conjunction with the one-man show See You On the Other Side by frequent FIGHT THEATRE performer Casey Deming.
FIGHT THEATRE received a fabulous Residency with Downtown Art in NYC for over 50hours of free space to create and perform this show. Many thanks for Ryan Gilliam and Mike Hickey. José continues to work on ZOMBIES, look out for the next opportunity to see it! |
COMMUNITY PROJECT - José and fellow theatre artist Shannon Foy created a festive community piece for a neighborhood in Saginaw, MI. Entitled, "A Snowman On Every Corner" the two made tiny snowmen and placed them on the four corners of street intersections along Post Street in Saginaw - almost like mini heralds of Christmas joy to greet passersby. Although one snowman was later found visibly stomped upon and another run over by a car, the artists felt that the tiny Frostys brought a little more cheer to the Post Street inhabitants.
November, 2012
ARTIST RESIDENCY - Rehearsal begin for "ZOMBIES: A Lecture" through FIGHT THEATRE's Downtown Art Residency. The show will be double billed with Casey Deming's one-man show about his bout with cancer as a teen: "See You On the Other Side." Both will perform Dec 1-2 at Downtown Art.
October, 2012
ARTIST RESIDENCY - FIGHT THEATRE has received a Residency with Downtown Art to create and workshop a new show in their brand spanking-new studio! José and the team will receive space, time, and support to imagine up a new adventure.
HURRICANE SANDY- Stranded in Jersey City, NJ with no power, dwindling food supplies, and PATH trains flooded - José naturally did what one does in a such a situation: he wrote a play. "ZOMBIES: A Lecture", a OneMan Show/practical guide to surviving the zombie apocalypse. Rehearsals begin in November through FIGHT THEATRE's Downtown Art Residency.
"And when things get tough, this is what you should do. Make good art. I'm serious. Husband runs off with a politician? Make good art. Leg crushed and then eaten by mutated boa constrictor? Make good art. Cat exploded? Make good art... Do what only you do best. Make good art." - Neil Gaiman, Keynote Adress University of the Arts 2012
HURRICANE SANDY- Stranded in Jersey City, NJ with no power, dwindling food supplies, and PATH trains flooded - José naturally did what one does in a such a situation: he wrote a play. "ZOMBIES: A Lecture", a OneMan Show/practical guide to surviving the zombie apocalypse. Rehearsals begin in November through FIGHT THEATRE's Downtown Art Residency.
"And when things get tough, this is what you should do. Make good art. I'm serious. Husband runs off with a politician? Make good art. Leg crushed and then eaten by mutated boa constrictor? Make good art. Cat exploded? Make good art... Do what only you do best. Make good art." - Neil Gaiman, Keynote Adress University of the Arts 2012
August, 2012
FIGHTER rocks Kansas City
FIGHTER finished its run at the majestic Rose Theater in Kansas City, MO! 24hour road trip, big family dinners, and some stupid-good barbecue.
It was a fantastic journey. Thanks to everyone who made it a successful run! Especially our donors!
The native KC boys, Mitch and Logan, were interviewed by the Kansas City Star
August 18th & 19th, 2012: Kansas City, MO. @ The Rose Theater