Our production of Bertolt Brecht's The Caucasian Chalk Circle gave a unique challenge: to transform ten ensemble cast members into the over 40 characters that populate the vast world of the play. We chose to set the play in the present, with the War in Iraq as a constant visual presence brought in not just by the Desert Storm uniforms but by the militaristic base costumes worn by every actor. By introducing Eastern European and Persian elements to the costumes, we created a vibrant world that is both recognizable and unfamiliar, dingy and colorful, past and present.
"Once upon a time"
Petitioners at the Governor's gate
Grusha travels through the mountains
Grusha and Simon meet at the river
Azdak and Prince Kazbeki's nephew square off
Azdak and Shauva sing the Song of Chaos
Grusha and the Governor's Wife struggle over Michael
