When We Fall Apart - The Set Design

One of the most intriguing aspects of Joe Goode’s latest work, When We Fall Apart (premiering at Z Space, June 14-30), is the set, designed by architect Cass Calder Smith. This isn’t typical background scenery at all; the set interacts with the performers as an essential aspect of the performance. It transforms the physical space of our theater away from a traditional ‘single direction’ seating arrangement into more of a ‘theater in the round’ configuration. These ‘sneak preview’ pictures from When We Fall Apart rehearsal should give a hint as to what to expect.

When We Fall Apart explores the intricate and fragile relationship between house and body, and what defines a “home.” With that in mind, Goode and Smith wanted to make this iconic symbol of stability (a house), unstable. This design emerged as a distillation of various sketches, meetings, and emails between Goode and Cass. This house is constructed of pinewood slats that function like venetian blinds, affording a transparency to the structure. The set design also includes an upside down tree, strip of green lawn, and a table.

Smith, who is best known for his high-profile restaurant designs (Lulu, Azie, Terzo, Perbacco, Rose Pistola, 25 Lusk) was inspired by Gordon Matta Clark, the artist famous for carving out sections of buildings (floors, ceilings, walls) to reveal their hidden construction, to provide new ways of perceiving space, and to create metaphors for the human condition.

Be sure to come see When We Fall Apart at Z Space June 14-30. Get tickets here.

The production also features a live musical score from musician Ben Juodvalkis from the band Battlehooch. An upcoming installment of this blog will feature an audio preview of his score and a profile of his approach to composing the music.

Check out these two great write-ups on "Des Voix...Found In Translation".

"The Parisian avant-garde hits the San Francisco stage this week..." -The San Francisco Examiner

"'Des Voix ... Found in Translation' is a theater project that wants to change how we think about modern French theater." -The San Francisco Chronicle

Low Down

San Francisco based dance companies LEVYdance and The Foundry collaborate to create "Low Down", a new work being performed here (at Z Space!) May 17th through 20th.

Bal Littéraire—A New Play Nightclub

The Des Voix Festival does more than just expose the work of the newest and most innovative contemporary playwrights to audiences in both France and the United States. It also gives you a CHANCE TO DANCE.

The San Francisco festival features for the first time in America a “Bal Littéraire” (A New Play Night Club), an event that is wildly popular throughout France. Performed for one evening only, it is a unique hybrid of flash plays, songs, club dancing and literature.