The Wheel Thing

Putting improvisation on two wheels and setting it to music is the concept behind Sweat, the latest production at Off-Center@The Jones. Actress Meridith C. Grundei is the brains behind the long-form improv show, which is based on a similar bicycle-mounted, on-the-spot production she put together in Chicago several years ago...

By Bree Davies

May 16, 2013

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Putting improvisation on two wheels and setting it to music is the concept behind Sweat, the latest production at Off-Center@The Jones. Actress Meridith C. Grundei is the brains behind the long-form improv show, which is based on a similar bicycle-mounted, on-the-spot production she put together in Chicago several years ago. “It’s a loosely based format where, essentially, we’ll get a lot of our cues from the music,” says Grundei. “If a scene goes on too long or there’s a nice edit point, we’ll use the device of music to help with the trans-formation.” The music will be improvised, too: From the seat of a specially designed tricycle outfitted as a moving one-man band, theater composer Gary Grundei will have access to a ukulele, harmonica, various percussive instruments and keyboards with wireless amplification.

The show also features improv actor Brian McManus, the visual aids of Off-Center’s own Charlie Miller, and the direction of veteran thespian Mare Trevathan. Custom-made bicycles will be on display in the theater, and BikeDenver will provide a courtesy “bike valet” service for guests riding to the show. Sweat rolls out tonight at 8 p.m. and tomorrow night at the Jones Theatre in the Denver Performing Arts Complex. Tickets are $12 to $14; for more information or to purchase tickets, call 303-893-4100 or visit denveroffcenter.org/sweat.
Fri., May 17, 8 p.m.; Sat., May 18, 8 p.m., 2013

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Bree Davies is a multimedia journalist, artist advocate and community organizer born and raised in Denver. Rooted in the world of Do-It-Yourself arts and music, Davies co-founded Titwrench experimental music festival, is host of the local music and comedy show Sounds on 29th on CPT12 Colorado Public Television and is creator and host of the civic and social issue-focused podcast, Hello? Denver? Are You Still There? Her work is centered on a passionate advocacy for all ages, accessible, inclusive, non-commercial and autonomous DIY art spaces and music venues in Denver.

Contact: Bree Davies

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Twitter: @cocodavies