|
In a series of 36 interlocking scenes, Naomi Iizuka's play 36 Views explores the relationship between the imaginary and the real. Set in the Asian art world, the story focuses on the discovery of a one-of-a-kind Japanese pillow book, a diary of a court lady that turns the academic field of Asian antiquity upside down. Worlds collide as scholars, art dealers and reporters clamor over the finding.
In 36 Views , Naomi Iizuka has successfully and creatively melded elements of traditional Kabuki Theater with a modern vision of Western forms. Named for a series of woodblock prints called 36 Views of Mount Fuji by nineteenth-century artist Hokusai, 36 Views raises questions about authenticity and constantly presents the question of what is true and what is real. The characters struggle with the authenticity of precious, ancient art objects and artifacts and question the truthfulness of their relationships with one another. Most importantly, the characters question the authenticity of their own decisions, their lives, and their actions.
Setsuko Hearn ................. Zoe Chao '07
John Bell ......................... Steven Levenson '06
Darious Wheeler .............. John Magaziner '08
Elizabeth Newman-Orr .......Alexandra Panzer '08
Claire Tzong .................... Mikiko Thelwell '06
Owen Mathiassen ............. Daniel Hernandez '08
|