Why a Laboratory?
What’s behind Infinite Spark’s LIRIOPE LABORATORY
There are several overlapping reasons why we’re so interested in creating a theater laboratory space here in Rochester!
· First, is simple logistics: the work we make is developmental in nature, so we love working in a more open format of time, space, and collaboration. For us, traditional rehearsal periods have always felt cramped—so why not make time and space for the development process to unfold more organically? Then, once things have had the space they need to develop, we’ll present them to our audiences.
· Second, Lab creates a generous space for performers, directors, and creators to develop practical skills and embodied techniques. There’s nothing we love more than expanding our skills in things like physical characterization, dynamic stagecraft, ensemble coordination, embodied imagination, creative intuition, etc. And for us, the clearest route to those skills is through play and practical experiment. In Lab, ideas and inspirations are put into motion; everyone marinates on them; and then the process shifts, adapts, and builds from what has actually been tried in space.
Further, and related to developing technique: in our opinion, no other format is as holistic and inherently non-competitive as Lab work. The long-form nature of Lab-work frees participants from the common pressure to ‘get it right before the curtain goes up’, which can cut off many layers of exploration and reduce creative freedom. Instead, because everyone in the room is exploring (and following the work instead of the clock), folks are enabled to develop and apply techniques at their own pace. There’s room for everyone’s differences, and different strengths; and there’s space, time, and flexibility to breathe into your craft for the joy of it—for its own sake—not because anyone’s trying to be ‘better’ than anyone else.
· Third is perhaps the most meaningful reason for Lab work: we believe there is nothing more generative, playful, community-building, and creatively enriching than having space to openly experiment on creative material, in a collaborative environment. In Lab, participants play together through the embodied and challenging puzzles that are unique to each theatrical expression. And, even when one person is leading a collaborative process, everyone in the room has a voice, and everyone’s instincts and abilities contribute to the overall process. Taking this route gives each piece, and each collaborator, the benefit of the collective’s insights and perspectives. In the end, we believe this process intensifies both the uniqueness, and the felt resonance of each expression when it comes time to present. What a way to work and play! Who knows what creative and communal riches will emerge!
· And Lastly: We want Liriope Laboratory to be a creative resource and opportunity for the whole theater community here in Rochester. So why not invite those who want to work with us, to take part? We’re passionate about inviting you to A) join our work as a way of developing the embodied side of your creative practice, as well as to B) make your own work, mentored by and in collaboration with us, using the embodied tools that we’ve developed over many years.
Those are the basics. To learn more, and to get involved, click HERE and HERE!
