"Forms of Fire" by Andrei Codrescu, Lynnea Villanova , and Micah Ariel James; Directed & Choreographed by Clove Galilee

A powerful, multimedia theater experience that intertwines the lives of three people—a scientist, a music teacher, and a dancer—each grappling with the long shadows of personal and collective trauma. Through a fusion of scientific exploration and artistic expression, the play delves into the fragile human psyche, asking how and whether we can truly rewire our minds to overcome the past. Set against the backdrop of experimental neuromodulation, the characters’ journeys are mirrored in kinetic sculptures that evolve as metaphors for their fractured identities and disparate quests for healing. With a chorus of dancers embodying their internal struggles, "Forms of Fire" offers a poignant meditation on memory, resilience, and the transformative power of connection.

This staged reading offers a first glimpse into the evolving piece, with immersive and staging elements prototyped in real time. The audience is not only witness but participant in the experiment.

MEET THE CREATIVE TEAM

Created by: Lynnea Villanova MD

Co-Authors: Andrei Codrescu, Lynnea Villanova, Micah Ariel James

Dramaturg: Micah Ariel James

Director/Choreographer: Clove Galilee (Mabou Mines)

Composer: Melvin Gibbs

Sound Design: Dean Parker

Installation Art: Jingjing Lin

Scientific Advisors: Boris Gutkin

Lighting Design: Cat Tate Starmer

Sculptors: Rosa Elling; Lute Breuer

CAST

Amanda - Meghann Reynolds

Edgar & Diego - Jack Pappas

Irene - Shauna Pinkett

Mila - Christianna Nelson

Sasha - Finley Rosser

Zeb - Felice Rosser

The Chorus - Nicola Bosco-Alvarez

Narration - Liz Colarte

This performance is presented by the Romanian Cultural Institute with additional support from TRICKSADDLE, The Rogovy Foundation, Mabou Mines, and Bowery Arts & Sciences Ltd. With additional support from LA MAMA.