The Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble (CDE) is set to present its revitalized “Full Circle Festival” from September 19-28, offering audiences an expansive showcase of physical, fringe, and dance theater works. Hosted at CDE’s venue at 1650 W. Foster Avenue, this year’s festival marks a significant evolution, expanding from its traditional focus on short-form pieces to feature longer, more in-depth performances ranging from 30 to 60 minutes in length. This reimagining directly addresses a growing need within the performance community for opportunities to present more developed works.
Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble: A Pillar of Socially Conscious Art
Founded in 2001, the Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble stands as Chicago’s sole multidisciplinary arts organization dedicated to social justice and socially conscious work. Rooted in the Tanztheatre tradition, which unites various art media to foster radical change, CDE aims to engage, inspire, and challenge audiences through innovative, collaborative storytelling that illuminates social issues. The ensemble strives to create an equitable and empowering space for artists and audiences alike, fostering community dialogue and cultural transformation. As CDE celebrates its 25th season, the Full Circle Festival continues its mission to support artists by providing a crucial platform for their creations.
Evolution of the Full Circle Festival
For eight years, the Full Circle Festival has been a beloved event, primarily spotlighting performance pieces under 15 minutes. However, since reopening after the pandemic, CDE recognized a community need for longer-form works. This reimagined iteration is a direct response, transforming the festival into a significant opportunity for artists to explore themes and narratives with greater depth. The expansion also aligns with CDE’s broader role as an incubator for artists, providing vital support and affordable presentation space within Chicago’s dynamic arts landscape.
A Spectrum of Performers and Productions
This year’s festival is co-produced with the Whispering Theatre Collective, an ensemble known for its physical, experimental theater that delves into themes of humanity and dreams. The curated lineup features a compelling array of Chicago-based artists and companies, each bringing a unique perspective:
* HGBIC Productions presents “Josephine,” a piece exploring the early life and career of legendary performer Josephine Baker.
* The Whispering Theatre Collective offers “Well-Balanced Dads,” a family-friendly physical comedy featuring partner acrobatics, and “Arachne,” a solo performance blending Greek mythology with themes of friendship and justice.
* CIRCA-Pintig, a renowned Filipino American arts organization, brings “Every Brilliant Thing,” an interactive and heartwarming play by Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe that celebrates life’s simple joys.
* RE|dance Group showcases “Chicago MemoryScape,” an innovative public art and dance installation that transforms the city’s neighborhoods into stages.
* Emma Jean Eastling presents “The Storage Closet,” a raw, femme-driven narrative exploring survival and sisterhood within the GoGo club scene.
* Broken Planet offers “Broken Planet Show,” an absurd and interactive cabaret where clowning, music, and chaos collide in a celebration of imperfection.
* Michelle Stine, a Chicago-based performer specializing in clowning and puppetry, presents “Always, Sometimes, Maybe,” a solo clown show about finding connection and community.
* Fat Theatre Project contributes “Destination Wedding,” a collection of short plays presented as an elevated staged reading, set at an Icelandic destination wedding.
A Hub for Collaboration and Artistic Exploration
The Full Circle Festival is more than just a series of performances; it embodies CDE’s commitment to fostering a collaborative environment and enriching Chicago’s cultural fabric. By partnering with organizations like Whispering Theatre Collective and providing a platform for emerging and established artists, CDE amplifies diverse voices and artistic innovation. Attendees are invited to explore a rich tapestry of theatrical experiences, from poignant narratives to exhilarating physical performances.
This festival offers a unique opportunity for the Chicago community to engage with cutting-edge performance art, discover new artists, and enjoy a diverse range of theatrical expressions. The extended run and expanded focus on longer works promise a deeply engaging experience for all who attend.
