Mosaic
The Playground Theater is excited to announce the relaunch of the MOSAIC program, which focuses on artists exploring individual identity and celebrating uniqueness. MOSAIC acknowledges the diverse cultures that can be found within Chicago, while accentuating the common bond we all share as human beings. This program represents the complex new American point of view that must encompass all voices.
Auditions: Saturday, July 28th and Sunday, July 29th
An Important History
The MOSAIC program made its original debut in 2016 in association with the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, with a 7 month residency at the Chicago Cultural Center. MOSAIC was created to give artists tools and a platform to explore individual identity and celebrate diversity and uniqueness. While in residency, MOSAIC partners produced such highly regarded works as Tumbao at Steppenwolf Theatre, Division Street (featuring writer Ashley Nicole Black of Samantha Bee), Don Chipotle (written by Juan Fransisco Villa of Empanada for a Dream), works by esteemed curator Felicia Simpson, as well as many other original productions by its diverse collective of artists. The original MOSAIC was produced by Matt Barbera, Jo Catell, Isaac Gomez, Wendy Mateo, Lori Diaz, and Juan Fransisco Villa.
A Vision for the Future
Under the new direction of Co-Creative Directors Kiarra Hughes and Zack Pedica, MOSAIC will make The Playground Theater a home-base for performers of all stripes to vibrantly exist. It is necessary, now more than ever, for new voices to enlighten our community. MOSAIC provides a safe and supportive environment, opportunities for self-discovery and artistic growth, and a platform for ensembles to educate and inspire fellow performers and audiences alike.
Commitment and Opportunities
In this first iteration of the new MOSAIC, ensembles will be created out of our truly inclusive auditions. Once cast, members make a 6 month commitment to their ensemble, The Playground Theater co-op, and the community at large.
During the 6 months, teams will rehearse bi-weekly, attend exciting multi-disciplinary workshops, and perform twice monthly at The Playground Theater. In conjunction with their performance endeavors, each MOSAIC ensemble has a fundraising goal of $250 and will curate a Community Impact Event. This will combine members’ artistic and civil passions, utilizing multiple mediums and intersectional collaboration.
Members of the MOSAIC program will have a voice both on and off stage. Their experiences and insight will play an integral role in further developing and promoting The Playground Theater’s mission. We believe that in order to truly reflect the society in which we create, all perspectives must have representation, visibility, and the power to effect positive change.
Auditions: Saturday, July 28th and Sunday, July 29th
MOSAIC MISSION: To cultivate a platform for artists to exist, share knowledge, explore creativity, and vibrantly represent experiences within Chicago’s diverse cultural landscape.
MOSAIC VISION: To create a safe, supportive, and flourishing network of artists from all walks of life with the same transformative goal of making performance spaces accessible and welcoming to all.