Transformation – the naked truth of gender identity

There is strength and bravery permeating every aspect of [Trans]formation. Go see this play. See these brave people tell their stories. In times like these, shows like [Trans]formation matter, and Nothing without a Company and Living Canvas have produced a piece of theatre that is desperately and urgently needed. – Jessie Bond, Chicago Splash Magazine

Get your tickets now for this incredible collaborative project between The Living Canvas and Nothing Without a Company running through December 17, 2016. Read the reviews!

[Trans]formation is devised entirely from the works of, and performed by, transgender, genderqueer, intersex, and non-binary artists. Designed and directed in the style of The Living Canvas, nude performers embody the expressive power and diversity of the human form clothed by projections to reveal, instead of conceal, every body’s beautiful possibility. [Trans]formation utilizes text, dance, movement, music, and the textures of projections to explore the naked truth of gender identity. [Trans]formation is a show for those actively involved in discussions about gender identity… and also very much for those who feel lost in the weeds in all the talk about pronouns and bathrooms but who are open-minded and interested in hearing genuine stories of life outside their own experience.

Though unintentional, this is turning out to be a perfect, almost essential, time for this production. It’s gratifying in this political reality to be able to provide an outlet that not only affirms, but also expands awareness.

And The Living Canvas is a stunning artistic medium for telling these stories. There has never been anything like this. Ever.

Prior to each performance of [Trans]formation there will be a short artistic “Portrait” by a local transgender/non-binary artist. Following each performance there will be an optional discussion and opportunity for audience members to participate by “transforming” their own bodies under the projections onstage.

The [Trans]formation cast includes Gabriel Faith Howard, Ronen Kohn, Lily Jean, Chase Nuerge, Ben Polson, and Kevin Sparrow.

The [Trans]formation design team includes Chris Owens (Projections Designer), Sarah Putts (Sound Designer), Brittany Meyer (Set Designer), Michael J. Sanow (Technical Designer), and Marisa Allison (Costume Designer).

The [Trans]formation production team includes Anna Rose Ii-Epstein (Co-Producer/Co-Artistic Director of Nothing Without a Company), Pete Guither (Co-Producer/Artistic Director of The Living Canvas), Veronica Bustoz (Stage Manager), Charlie Hano (Assistant to the Director), Hannah Ii-Epstein (Co-Artistic Director of Nothing Without a Company), Kaitlin Carver (Casting), and Rebecca Kling (Advisor).

The Vault at Collaboraction Studios in The Flat Iron Arts Building
1579 N Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL 60622

Right by the Damen stop on the Blue Line. Street parking available in the area, but you may need to hunt a bit, so allow extra time. Tons of amazing restaurants just within a block – come early and enjoy a great dinner.

When you get there, enter under the red awning, and go up to the third floor. Follow the hallway to the right and look for the signs for [Trans]formation.