ICA LIVE: THEATER

Chautauqua!

The National Theater of the United States of America

"The National Theater of the United States of America left me stunned and breathless and completely in awe." — Malcolm Gladwell

Step right up for an event that is part history lesson, part variety show, and pure entertainment. The National Theater of the United States of America, one of the most exciting experimental theater troupes around, presents Chautauqua!, inspired by the Chautauqua Circuit, a wildly popular traveling lecture series that flourished from 1874 to the great Depression. Scholars, scientists, magicians, jugglers, and dancers gathered under circus tents across the country in an effort to educate and uplift the common man.

NTUSA’s Chautauqua! brings this tradition into the 21st century, straddling “high” and “low” culture as it combines informative lectures with Broadway-style song-and-dance numbers, joke telling, and feats of strength. The program is revamped for each new venue, with lectures that draw on the history of that place. Guest performers including the Second Line Social Aid Pleasure Society Brass Band, and an over the top finale featuring members of All The Kings Men, Babes in Boinkland and friends, will join the company each night for an unforgettable experience of information, entertainment, and spectacle.

Featured speakers will include:
Friday, April 1st: Neil Miller, Tufts University, author of “Banned in Boston”
Saturday, April 2nd: Marcyliena Morgan, Harvard University, Executive Director of the HipHop Archive
Sunday, April 3rd: Mikko Nissinen, Artistic Director of the Boston Ballet

Please note: On Saturday, April 2nd, the Water Cafe will be open at 6:30 pm for snacks and drinks prior to the performance. The Cafe is open its usual hours on Friday (until 9 pm) and Sunday (until 5 pm).

Funded in part by the Expeditions program of the New England Foundation for the Arts, made possible with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, with additional support from the six New England state arts agencies.