Call for Gwen Frostic-inspired theatrical dance auditions

Press release

Renowned local author Anne-Marie Oomen (American Map, Uncoded Woman) and theatrical dance director Gretchen Eichberger (American Document) will team up to develop a theatrical dance production with text inspired by late Benzie County naturalist Gwen Frostic’s meditations — in honor of the tenth anniversary of her death, (and in celebration of her life).

“Remember Gwen Frostic and those beautiful art books?” asks Oomen. “Remember that nature-based studio in Benzonia? Remember how her vision of nature was something you wanted to pick up and touch?”

An open call for dancers will be held for an original multimedia theatrical dance work on Saturday, April 23 from 12-4 p.m. at Eastern Michigan University’s Parsons Center in Lake Ann, approximately 12 miles southeast of Traverse City. The work, entitled “Chaotic Harmony,” is inspired by the legacy of iconic Michigan woman, Gwen Frostic.

Eichberger will conduct artistic direction with the script written and adapted by Oomen. An original musical score has been composed by nationally acclaimed Michigan-based trio, Breathe Owl Breathe. All artists will be paid for rehearsal time and performances. Each artist must commit to twice weekly rehearsals from May-August 2011 in the Traverse City area. Spot rehearsals will continue from September to December. Performance dates are August 28 and 29 and December 15 with two additional pending performance dates.

To schedule your audition, please contact Eichberger at (231) 871-0215 or email gretchen (AT) michiganfolklife DOT org