Drama Graduate Directs Mapping M√∂bius at NYC’s La MaMa
Ildiko Nemeth, Drama ’02, directs the premiere of Mapping M√∂bius at La MaMa. In the piece, an aging scientist, realizing that his inquiries continually return him to a model of his own mind, devises a set of experiments that blur the distinction between his inner and outer worlds. The play, written by Nemeth, Colm O’Shea, and Marie Glancy-O’Shea, is presented by The New Stage Theatre Company (NTSC). Nemeth is the founder and artistic director of the company.
NTSC made an auspicious La MaMa debut last season with Oh, Those Beautiful Weimar Girls!, an evening of music and dance associated with exotic dancer Anita Berber, who symbolized to many the decadence of Weimar-era Berlin. Mapping M√∂bius reflects Nemeth’s interest in German subjects and scientific exploration.
NTSC’s productions are distinguished by their elaborate costuming, inventive choreography, and striking visual images and design. Nemeth has cultivated a distinctive style well suited to the company’s choice of plays and aesthetic framework. As a director, I strive to present productions wherein acting, stage design, costumes, language, music and choreography play pivotal roles,, she writes. I create movement-based performances, often utilizing the entirety of available theater space and even spreading into the audience to fuse actors and observers in a moment of visceral reaction. For me visual elements are not just accessories but part of the content, powerfully conveying subconscious dimensions of the action.”
Mapping Möbius runs through December 19 at La MaMa E.T.C., 74A East Fourth Street. For tickets and more information, visit www.newstagetheatre.org.