Theatre Fri Jun 06 2014
The Bridge Comes to Bridgeport
A new theatre company is coming to Bridgeport! The Bridge, founded by Chicago writer and performer Kestutis Nakas, will officially open its doors with a performance of The Golf Ball, an original adaptation of Anton Chekhov's The Seagull.
"The goal is to provide professional theatre at movie ticket prices," said Nakas.
The first production is set for June 13 at the Community Center of First Lutheran Church of the Trinity, the host of the company. According to Nakas, there is a need in the community for the arts, specifically theatre, and hopes the art form will find growth there.
"I think it's for regular, middle-class, working people to find out that this art form is accessible, that it speaks to them and that it enriches their lives."
Nakas, a professional writer, director and actor from the Bridgeport area, wrote the present-day telling of The Seagull to be set in Chicago, utilizing the neighborhoods and scenery of the city to help carry the story. Dysfunction runs wild in this adaptation as two Chicago artists fall in love, only to have their circumstances get in the way. It's a tragedy, but according to Nakas, the dysfunction is "so profound, that it's actually funny."
The Bridge plans to present contemporary adaptations of classic plays written between the late 18th century and early 20th century, with a modern twist.
"When you re-tell those stories using contemporary language and situations, they come alive again."
Theatregoers can also expect brand new "edgy" works of art such as spoken word and movement every second Saturday of the month at The Bridge. Each piece of performance art will last 15 minutes, with four to five performances each session.
The Golf Ball runs Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 3pm, June 13 through July 6. Tickets are $12, and may be purchased in advance at brownpapertickets or by calling 312-307-5194. Students and seniors will receive discounted tickets for $10 if purchased at the door with cash or check. The First Lutheran Church of the Trinity's second-floor auditorium at 643 W. 31st St.
