THE DRAMA CIRCLE

Promoting Bahá'í-inspired Theatre Initiatives

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Linking Quality Shows with
Clusters Ready for Growth

 Some Touring Shows
(in the Eastern U.S.)

More Information
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     There currently is no "touring circuit" for the performing arts in the Baha'i community, and while it may be some time before such a thing comes into being, there is good reason to believe that some organized attempt to promote touring shows would be a boon to growth in our community. Especially among priority clusters, where the community has reached a certain readiness for sustained growth, the arts may then be effectively integrated into the cluster's cycle of growth.

     To recall the role the arts can play in growth, we need look no further than the well-known statement written on behalf of the Guardian:

     At the same time, clusters will have a difficult time coming up with the time and resources to come up with a regular supply of presentations. A simple and effective solution is then to bring quality shows that already exist to your community.  No doubt, the thought of having mature, professional quality musical acts, dramatic presentations or fine arts exhibitions traveling from community to community, inspiring the Bahá’ís and their friends, surely excites in us some of our greatest hopes for the triumph of our beloved Cause.
    The fostering of a ‘circuit’ of venues for Bahá’í-inspired work need not be grandiose in conception. It may just take a handful of advanced clusters to consider incorporating a performance or presentation as part of their cycle of growth to get started.

    At this point, the idea is still new and still just an idea. If you have thoughts, please include them on our discussion board. For the time being, we include information on five shows from the Eastern United States that can tour. Contact us if you need help connecting with the artists. Perhaps if the idea begins to take root, we can take a more active role in promoting the process.

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Leave your ideas
on our online discussion forum

Khouraji (Foreigner)
By Anisa George

The Kingfisher's Wing
By Bill George
Based on the story of the Persian youth known as Badi. His elderly father was a devout follower of the new Faith, while the boy held to the family's Islamic traditions, until he came in contact with the Source of the new Faith. Movement Theatre Quarterly calls it "a rich offering, both visually and spiritually. It captivates us through the interaction of puppets, lighting effects, and physical-ization combined with storytelling."

The Noble Thief

By Chris Hampton
An hour-long musical that tells the story of an arrogant burglar that attends a fireside to scout for valuables… and is transformed into a lover of Bahá'u'lláh through the patience and kindness of his new Bahá'í friends. One reviewer says: "Amidst widespread cynicism, this moving play asserts that it is our nature to reflect nobility and that hopeful possibilities surround us; the extra-ordinary performance is a gift from God."

On the Rooftop with Bill Sears By Mark Perry

His life is a dream-come-true, but whose dream is it? Follow 1950s TV personality Bill Sears on a journey both entertaining and poignant as he unravels the secret of a childhood vision and realizes the unyielding demands of a true calling. In one reviewer's words: "A sensational play by The Drama Circle ponders life’s deepest questions with a deft comedic touch..."

The Seven Valleys

By Marty & Wendy Quinn

An original musical theater adaptation of the 19th Century mystical book, "The Seven Valleys," this work is a delightful and thought-provoking journey through seven spiritual stages in the search of God. Audiences have described it as a "Tour de Force! Beautifully done. An achievement of magnitude" with "joyful and haunting song, innovative dance, masterful drumming, and exquisitely beautiful and versatile props."