The South Pasadena High School Drama Department is proud to present a thrilling evening of two distinct one-act plays that push the boundaries of traditional theater. The production will feature the high-energy, interactive comedy “Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind: 30 Plays in 60 Minutes” by Greg Allen, originally created by
the Chicago-based Neo-Futurists and the poignant, documentary-style musical “Gone Missing” by the New York-based theater company The Civilians.
The evening offers a unique theatrical journey. The first act, Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind is an exhilarating attempt to perform 30 original plays in 60 minutes. In this fast-paced and unpredictable show, the order of the plays is determined by the audience, creating a unique experience at every performance. The SPHS cast navigates a whirlwind of comedic, tragic, and abstract vignettes in a race against the clock.
Following intermission, the tone shifts with Gone Missing, a frequently funny, but deeply moving musical created from real-life interviews by the acclaimed investigative-theater company, The Civilians. The play explores the nature of loss through a collection of stories about things gone missing. From a lost shoe to a misplaced memory to a romantic relationship, these personal accounts are woven together with a beautiful and eclectic musical score by Michael Friedman and terrific writing by Steve Cossan, creating a funny, insightful, and deeply human tapestry.
“This double-bill is a fantastic showcase for an incredibly versatile and talented group of students,” said Nick Hoffa, SPHS Drama Director. “They are embracing the chaos and improvisation of Too Much Light while also delving into the authentic, heartfelt storytelling of Gone Missing. They are doing this while showing off their singing, instrumental playing, improvisational skills, and ability to connect to deeply dramatic scenes. It’s a powerful pairing that asks big questions about what we value and what we’ve lost. We are so excited to share this bold night of theater with the community.”
CONTENT MESSAGE: Too Much Light is appropriate for all ages. Gone Missing is mostly appropriatebut has some occasional PG-13 language, adult themes, and a few references to acts of violence.
General admission is $15. Tickets go on sale the week of October 27, and may be purchased online: southpasdrama.com and at the door. Seating capacity is limited so advanced purchases are recommended.
The plays (directed by Nick Hoffa, with technical direction by James Jontz) will be performed five times: Nov. 7,8,14,15 at 7:00PM with a 2PM matinee on Nov 16. South Pasadena High School, Little Theater, 1401 Fremont Avenue, South Pasadena, CA.
