By Nina Mansfield
Directed by Adyana de la Torre
Produced by Ticket 2 Eternity Productions
Nomination: Carlos Neto is nominated for Outstanding Choreography/Movement
About this Production
The play follows its “Hero”, an out-of-shape playwright, as he heads to the gym for the first time to conquer his writer’s block and attract his muse. Led by his subconscious (a bikini clad chorus), he is subjected to a host of obstacles while being introduced to 25 lovable, yet peculiar gym characters. Can facing his worst fears lead him to inspiration?
Producer and Director Adyana de la Torre and Choreographer Carlos Neto discuss this visceral production about transformation mentally and physically.
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What attracted you to this project?
Adyana: My background as a personal trainer and fitness instructor and love for the theatre. Bringing the two worlds together. I originally came up with the concept of fitness on stage and through workshopping, improv and collaboration with writer, Nina Mansfield - Gymnos: A Geek's Tragedy was born.
Carlos: The variety of talent within the cast. Most of the actors in this production have jobs outside acting (specially fitness related jobs) and they constantly gave their input which ultimately inspired my choreography.
What was your favorite part of this production?
Adyana: Preparing the actors physically for the work on stage! We worked out together regularly. And, I really enjoyed collaborating with sponsors to promote the play. It was sponsored by Capezio, Thorlos, BodyRock Sport and Paris Fitness so we created a really fun promotional campaign that included images, promo videos, and workout videos.
Carlos: The favorite part was definitely the opportunity to not only choreograph the actors and dancers in this production but also perform alongside them. It helped expanding my mind as both a choreographer and actor ultimately helping me grow as an artist.
What was the most challenging part of this production?
Adyana: Wrangling 25 actors on stage at one time - for most of the play.
Carlos: The most challenging part was definitely the different of levels of dance ability amongst the actors. Some people can learn very quickly while other would take a little longer, but eventually it all worked out
What made this production so different?
Carlos: This production was an intense mix of dance, fitness, and comedy. The writing of Nina Mansfield and the direction of Adyana de la Torre was definitely different from anything I have ever done before.
Adyana: We worked out physically and followed a nutrition plan as a group to prepare our bodies for an intense onstage workout performance. We produced commercials for social media for sponsors including ads for socks and clothing. Not just another show but a true journey in transformation!
What did you want the audience to take away from your production?
Adyana: We believe we have brought a unique and entertaining theatricality to the world of fitness to create a contemporary Greek comedy. The audience will be taken on a fantastical journey that will surely resonate with anyone who has ever been to the gym or what someone could assume about it!
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