The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago will be showing the debut of Latin American experimental playwright and director, Mariano Pensotti's darkly humorous new play, Cineastas.
Cineastas is the story of four eccentric filmmakers from Buenos Aires. The play uses amazing craftsmanship by set designer Mariana Tirantte to feature a two-level structure, so the audience has a chance to watch two scenarios unfold at once. On the lower stage, the director and crew meet, argue and shoot four different films. However, while that goes on, personal stories of the characters are unfolding on the second level. The play has a cast of five actors, all who switch between a number of different characters, which includes a narrator who provides commentary throughout the show to the audience. The effect gives the play a movie-like quality, with other film techniques being used such as montage, cross-cuts and voiceovers. However, all of these approaches are done purely by theatrical means.
This play comes from Pensotti's experiences in the film industry, especially in his hometown of Buenos Aires, which has an up-and-coming film presence. While developing Cineastas, he conducted a series of interviews with a number of filmmakers working in the city and was intrigued by the connection between their personal lives and their public films.
"When you see a play by Pensotti, it becomes clear what inspired design collaboration can be,” says Yolanda Cesta Cursach, MCA Associate Director of Performance Programs.
Cineastas will be shown from Feb. 26. until March 1 at the Edlis Neeson Theater in Chicago. The play will be in Spanish with English subtitles. To purchase tickets for this event, click here. Free general museum admission is granted with the ticket stub, which is valid up to seven days after the performance.
