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Circle Mirror Transformation

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Overview

Synopsis

In the small town of Shirley, Vermont, five strangers gather in a dance studio to embark on a unique journey together in a creative drama class for adults. Taught by Marty, their free-spirited and supportive leader, the group -- Schultz, a recently divorced, emotionally vulnerable carpenter, Teresa, an earnest and vibrant former actress, James, Marty’s quiet and genial husband, and Lauren, a reserved and self-conscious high schooler -- move through a series of acting exercises, ranging from the heartbreaking to the ridiculous. In this one small room, through these few seemingly trivial games, quiet wars are waged, emotional wounds are nursed, and healing is finally, slowly, able to begin. In Annie Baker’s quiet masterpiece, Circle Mirror Transformation, the audience takes a transcendent journey through the mundane into the profound.

Show Information

Category
Play
Age Guidance
Youth (Y)/General Audiences (G)
Number of Acts
1
First Produced
2009
Genres
Drama, Comedy
Settings
Simple/No Set
Time & Place
a windowless dance studio in rural vermont. summertime. present day.
Cast Size
small
Ideal For
small cast, diverse cast, ensemble cast, professional theatre, community theatre, Community Theatre, Regional Theatre, Mostly Female Cast, Includes Adult, Mature Adult, Late Teen Characters, Small Cast

Characters

Character Portrayals

See StageAgent members who have performed roles in Circle Mirror Transformation.

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Key Terms

    Naturalism is a theatrical style that seeks to depict life with accuracy, focusing on everyday speech, behavior, and settings. It often highlights ordinary people in realistic environments, emphasizing authenticity over theatricality. Emerging in the late 19th century, naturalism remains influential in contemporary drama.

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