“Problem Radical(s) is an experimental theatricalist opera just the way such things should be and rarely are. Creators Kara Feely and Travis Just have created a sophisticated collision between elegant formal considerations and the disruptive garbage of a world going down the drain that is exciting and exhilarating. The spectator is swept away in its delirious mix and emerges clear and emotionally refreshed.”
– Richard Foreman
“Rich imagery” and “Dreamlike intimacy”
– NYTheater.com
“Contemplative…highly conceptual”
– Vital Weekly
An experimental opera, Problem Radical(s) mixes everyday radical acts, a sprawling sculpture, massive inflating tarps, industrious performers, and hardcore noise. Performers navigate an ever-expanding, unstable installation. Musicians and singers reassemble the modular electronic and instrumental score, evoking American radical thinkers, civic activists, and maneuverable personal blimps.
Personnel:
writer and director: Kara Feely
composer: Travis Just
installation: Hannah Dougherty
video: Daniel Kötter
costume designer: Peter Ksander
lighting designer: Miranda Hardy
stage manager: Sarah Nerboso
associate producer: Morgan von Prelle Pecelli
performed by Karl Allen, Sarah Dahlen, Francesco Gagliardi, Caitlin McDonough Thayer
musicians: Kevin Farrell, James Moore
production assistants: Peiyi Wong, Stacey Berman, Sara Patterson
Excerpts from Problem Radical(s) have been presented at KuLe (Berlin, August 2007), Experimental Intermedia (New York, December 2007), and Loopline (Tokyo, May 2008). In June-July 2008, Object Collection developed the piece further during month-long artist residency at Abrons Arts Center/Henry Street Settlement.
You can preview the sounds of Problem Radical(s) on WFMU’s
Acousmatic Theater Hour.
Read the Feature about Problem Radicals in 
Magazine.
Fri, April 24 – Sun, May 10, 2009
Wed – Sat 7:30p
Sun 5:30p