Mental's Notions http://mentalnotion.com/blog The Progressive Postings of Mental Notion Society Sun, 05 May 2013 07:50:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 He Will Try to Kill Himself in The Russian Play http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=475 http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=475#comments Sun, 05 May 2013 07:50:56 +0000 Mental Notion http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=475 russian-mnscov

Sam Roos   The following are excerpts from the Director, Sam Roos's, email proposal to the Mental Notion Society.  These are short explanations to how the Russian Play was conceived.  As follows:     "I'm pulling mainly from Bulgakov's novel "Black Snow", also from Erdman's "The Suicide"."   "I've designed what's basically an improv form, a structure and a couple of specific techniques, to help create a new play in this style on the fly. The form is 5 acts."      The culmination of these acts became what is now deemed as - THE RUSSIAN PLAY.   “The Russian Play: an improvised black comedy” is a new project that is best described as an improvised one act play. The show takes place in the mid-21st century USSR, and it tells the story of a comrade trying to make their way in a dark, cruel reality, the details of which change every week. The cast takes a suggestion of a profession, and proceeds to tell a twisted tale of the rise and fall of an everyday hero of the USSR. It’s a completely improvised and unscripted romp with a consistent message: life is hard, people are cruel, death comes for us all, and if you think about it, it’s all pretty hilarious.   "The Russian Play: an improvised black comedy" features Timmy Barron, Eric Harrington, Matt Higbee, Pat Ivansek, Stephanie Jones, Anthony Oberbeck, Jeff Quintana, Amy Thompson, and Stephanie Weber.  Music Direction by Geno Alesandrini.  Directed and Conceived by Sam Roos.  Produced by the Mental Notion Society.     [gallery ids="477,478,479,480,481,482,483,484,485"] Poster draft 7  

WHERE:  Studio BE - 3110 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL 60657

WHEN:  Mondays, May 27th - June 17th, 2013 at 10pm

TIX:  $8/tix

DISCOUNT:  To get the discount code, follow the Mental Notion Society Facebook page [facebook.com/mentalnotionsociety] ; and as performance dates get closer, the code will be shared for all!  The code can ONLY BE USED TO BUY TICKETS ONLINE - the Studio BE website = http://www.studio-be.org

       ]]> russian-mnscov

Sam Roos   The following are excerpts from the Director, Sam Roos's, email proposal to the Mental Notion Society.  These are short explanations to how the Russian Play was conceived.  As follows:     "I'm pulling mainly from Bulgakov's novel "Black Snow", also from Erdman's "The Suicide"."   "I've designed what's basically an improv form, a structure and a couple of specific techniques, to help create a new play in this style on the fly. The form is 5 acts."      The culmination of these acts became what is now deemed as - THE RUSSIAN PLAY.   “The Russian Play: an improvised black comedy” is a new project that is best described as an improvised one act play. The show takes place in the mid-21st century USSR, and it tells the story of a comrade trying to make their way in a dark, cruel reality, the details of which change every week. The cast takes a suggestion of a profession, and proceeds to tell a twisted tale of the rise and fall of an everyday hero of the USSR. It’s a completely improvised and unscripted romp with a consistent message: life is hard, people are cruel, death comes for us all, and if you think about it, it’s all pretty hilarious.   "The Russian Play: an improvised black comedy" features Timmy Barron, Eric Harrington, Matt Higbee, Pat Ivansek, Stephanie Jones, Anthony Oberbeck, Jeff Quintana, Amy Thompson, and Stephanie Weber.  Music Direction by Geno Alesandrini.  Directed and Conceived by Sam Roos.  Produced by the Mental Notion Society.     [gallery ids="477,478,479,480,481,482,483,484,485"] Poster draft 7  

WHERE:  Studio BE - 3110 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL 60657

WHEN:  Mondays, May 27th - June 17th, 2013 at 10pm

TIX:  $8/tix

DISCOUNT:  To get the discount code, follow the Mental Notion Society Facebook page [facebook.com/mentalnotionsociety] ; and as performance dates get closer, the code will be shared for all!  The code can ONLY BE USED TO BUY TICKETS ONLINE - the Studio BE website = http://www.studio-be.org

       ]]> http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=475 0 Will Tetrazzini Sing his Last Performance? http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=466 http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=466#comments Sun, 05 May 2013 06:49:51 +0000 Mental Notion http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=466 tetrazzini-mnscover

It started with a conversation between Mental Notion's Artistic Director, Jonald Reyes, and Playwright, Jason Sebacher, back in June of 2012.JasonSebacher_1       [BACKSTORY:  The gents had met paths in a Play writing class at the Chicago Dramatists Theatre and after countless train rides, emails, and phone conversations, the two knew that one day they would work with each other.]     Upon that June meeting, Jason passed over an initial draft of this comedic play he had worked on.  Something about two brothers who continually argued and profusely cursed at each other as they made their way to catch an opera performance.  The opera was about some clown and was something "you'll know when you hear it."  --this was basically the vague exchange at their coffee drinking sit down. tuxtshirt   Time had passed.  Schedules were conflicting.  And finding the right venue was a challenge.     "We want it to be free because we want people to see this play."  The project was also for the love of the theatrical art and in protest to how commercialized the system has become in this day of needing the right marketing attack, the grandiose production plan, and the loads of money needed to make words on paper more pretty than what it really is.     Also in suit of a lax environment and freeing patrons to drink & move during the performance, the two wanted a bar atmosphere.  No tickets involved and all audience genres welcomed.  And then finally, in the beginning of 2013, a venue bit on the proposal.  The boys were in business and "this comedic play" was alive!     Furthermore, the playwright was to make his performance comeback, along with another fellow Mental Notion Artist.  And now we present to you - TETRAZZINI'S LAST HURRAH!     tetrazzini1      

The Mental Notion Society presents Tetrazzini's Last Hurrah! WHERE:  Underground Lounge - 952 W. Newport Ave., Chicago, IL 60657 WHEN:  Saturdays, May 11th - May 25th, 2013 at 7pm TIX:  FREE!  FREE!  FREE!

Fitz and Teddy--two estranged brothers--meet by chance while traveling to New York City to attend the last concert of a dying opera singer, rekindling several longstanding grudges. Bound together by fate, drugs, and more than one transvestite, Fitz and Teddy are a modern-day Laurel and Hardy. How will these squabbling siblings manage to cut their way through the brambles, traps, and fearsome beasts of the urban jungle? How, indeed.  Approx. Run-Time = 70 min.

Tetrazzini’s Last Hurrah features Ben Harpe, Jove, and Jason Sebacher.  Written by Jason Sebacher.  Directed / Produced by Jonald Jude Reyes.

FACEBOOK EVENT:  https://www.facebook.com/events/373847526058494/

PS - IT'S FREE!

]]> tetrazzini-mnscover

It started with a conversation between Mental Notion's Artistic Director, Jonald Reyes, and Playwright, Jason Sebacher, back in June of 2012.JasonSebacher_1       [BACKSTORY:  The gents had met paths in a Play writing class at the Chicago Dramatists Theatre and after countless train rides, emails, and phone conversations, the two knew that one day they would work with each other.]     Upon that June meeting, Jason passed over an initial draft of this comedic play he had worked on.  Something about two brothers who continually argued and profusely cursed at each other as they made their way to catch an opera performance.  The opera was about some clown and was something "you'll know when you hear it."  --this was basically the vague exchange at their coffee drinking sit down. tuxtshirt   Time had passed.  Schedules were conflicting.  And finding the right venue was a challenge.     "We want it to be free because we want people to see this play."  The project was also for the love of the theatrical art and in protest to how commercialized the system has become in this day of needing the right marketing attack, the grandiose production plan, and the loads of money needed to make words on paper more pretty than what it really is.     Also in suit of a lax environment and freeing patrons to drink & move during the performance, the two wanted a bar atmosphere.  No tickets involved and all audience genres welcomed.  And then finally, in the beginning of 2013, a venue bit on the proposal.  The boys were in business and "this comedic play" was alive!     Furthermore, the playwright was to make his performance comeback, along with another fellow Mental Notion Artist.  And now we present to you - TETRAZZINI'S LAST HURRAH!     tetrazzini1      

The Mental Notion Society presents Tetrazzini's Last Hurrah! WHERE:  Underground Lounge - 952 W. Newport Ave., Chicago, IL 60657 WHEN:  Saturdays, May 11th - May 25th, 2013 at 7pm TIX:  FREE!  FREE!  FREE!

Fitz and Teddy--two estranged brothers--meet by chance while traveling to New York City to attend the last concert of a dying opera singer, rekindling several longstanding grudges. Bound together by fate, drugs, and more than one transvestite, Fitz and Teddy are a modern-day Laurel and Hardy. How will these squabbling siblings manage to cut their way through the brambles, traps, and fearsome beasts of the urban jungle? How, indeed.  Approx. Run-Time = 70 min.

Tetrazzini’s Last Hurrah features Ben Harpe, Jove, and Jason Sebacher.  Written by Jason Sebacher.  Directed / Produced by Jonald Jude Reyes.

FACEBOOK EVENT:  https://www.facebook.com/events/373847526058494/

PS - IT'S FREE!

]]> http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=466 0 Help Me Find My Voice Begins http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=456 http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=456#comments Tue, 16 Apr 2013 16:58:19 +0000 Mental Notion http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=456 monovoice1

The Mental Notion Society presents
MONO(logue): Help Me Find My Voice

 

 

WHERE:  Studio BE – 3110 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL 60657

 

 

WHEN:  Every Thursday at 8pm from April 18th thru May 16th, 2013

 

 

TIX:  $10/tix
Buy in advance online = http://www.studio-be.org

 

]]> http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=456 0 #FightClubBurlesque – Hashtag Press Coverage http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=444 http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=444#comments Tue, 26 Mar 2013 03:35:26 +0000 Mental Notion http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=444 As the Mental Notion Society and Plan 9 Burlesque arrive at the mid-point of their run, Fight Club: A Project Mayhem Burlesque, the incoming reviews speak words of reasons to catch the show.  Take a gander -

 

 

entire article:

FightClub054

Winner takes bra: a burlesque take on Fight Club
By:  Rebecca Halleck, MSJ Northwestern

 

What do you get when you combine striptease with bloody knuckles? “Fight Club: A Project Mayhem Burlesque” busted up Lake View’s entertainment scene at The Public House Theatre Thursday.

 

The production follows the major plot points of the 1999 film, which starred Brad Pitt & Edward Norton as an insomniac, mentally disturbed narrator. In both, the main character starts a no-rules boxing ring and plans to bomb five corporations. The big difference: In this version, the cast is female—and nude except for their skivvies.

 

“I thought it was a successful update on the movie, a bit cheekier at parts but overall on par,” said city attorney Edward Soderberg, 30, on opening night.

 

When local writer and director Jonald Reyes began working on the script last fall, he wanted to find a way to pair physical aggression with lust. “I read articles on why women fight. Why do they stir up emotional confrontations against each other?” he said. “Then on top of that, I struggled to answer: Why is this person taking off their clothes?”

 

To marry the ideas of a hyper-masculine brawl with an ultra-feminine striptease, Reyes enlisted the help of a burlesque dance choreographer and a hand-to-hand stage combat professional.

 

“I purposefully didn’t make the fighting girly,” said Bobby Hoffman (a.k.a. Right This
Way Robbie), who is certified in combat choreography. “I wanted them to be scrappy, to throw down, to fight dirty. People are attracted to violence. And I wanted that idea to come across.”

 

Stella Cheeks, co-founder of Plan 9 Burlesque and a producer of the show, choreographed all seven of the girls’ dances. The art of undressing seductively is embodying a character, she said. “It’s not just about getting naked.”

 

The production also flirts with the movie’s darker concepts, such as the need for physical interaction in a digital world.

 

“I wanted to explore two main ideas throughout the show: What is beauty? And how does social media affect us?” Reyes said. “That’s pulled from the movie itself, that monotonous, zombielike state and the need for one-on-one contact.”

 

Fight Club: A Project Mayhem Burlesque will be playing Thursdays at 8 p.m. at The Public House Theatre, 3914 N. Clark St., until April 11. Tickets cost $15.

 

 

excerpts from:

 
Review: Fight Club – A Project Mayhem Burlesque (The Mental Notion Society + Plan 9 Burlesque)
By:  Katy Walsh

 
http://chicagotheaterbeat.com/2013/03/16/review-fight-club-project-mayhem-burlesque-the-mental-notion-and-plan-9-burlesque/

 

 

“The dancing, choreographed by Stella Cheeks, is sexy and bold. Whether line dancing or solo stripping, these gals are expressing their naked style with flair. ”

 

 

“The premise of this show is clever. Adapter and director Jonald Reyes developed this all-female parody from the movie and novel of “Fight Club.” Reyes’ script is at its most engaging in the witty banter between Sadie Hotkins (Taylor) and Marie Curieosity (Narrator). ”

 
excerpts from:

 
Don’t tell anyone about ‘Fight Club: A Project Mayhem Burlesque’
By:  Lee Klawans

 
http://www.examiner.com/review/don-t-tell-anyone-about-fight-club-a-project-mayhem-burlesque

 

FightClub115
“Hauserbush is rock star perfect as the glamorous, flighty Marla and Curieosity’s narrator is equally compelling.”

 
“The show is very entertaining it’s far from simply a burlesque show. The acting in between the dance numbers is great. There’s quite a bit of drama and the performances are top notch.”

 

 

 

Buy tickets today!  = http://pubhousetheatre.com/plan-9-burlesque/

 

 

]]> http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=444 0 AUDITION – the Role of Fitz http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=435 http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=435#comments Wed, 20 Mar 2013 06:41:43 +0000 Mental Notion http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=435 tetrazzini-mnscover

tetrazzini-mnscover   The Mental Notion Society presents Tetrazzini's Last Hurrah Written by Jason Sebacher.  Directed / Produced by Jonald Jude Reyes.   Synopsis:  Fitz and Teddy--two estranged brothers--meet by chance while traveling to New York City to attend the last concert of a dying opera singer. How will these squabbling siblings manage to cut their way through the brambles, traps, and fearsome beasts of the urban jungle? How, indeed.  Tetrazzini's Last Hurrah is an 80-min comedic play that addresses issues such as politics, sex, and family.     The Mental Notion Society seeks one male actor to play the role of Fitz.  Age range from late 20's to early 30's.  Candidates should be a bit husky or of larger physique yet still agile w/the ability for minimal physical comedic bits.  Candidates should have a strong theatrical background (2-3+ yrs) with some improvisational training/experience (1-2+ yrs).     One Audition Date:  Saturday, March 30th, 2013 - between 1 - 4pm   Location:  Theatre Momentum, 1800 W. Cornelia, Chicago, IL 60657 (http://www.theatremomentum.com)     (Auditions shall be in Studio D.  Entrance in the back of the building.  If you're waiting for your timeslot, please wait within the hallway and NOT within the main building lobby.  Thank you.)     Time Commitment: 1 to 2 rehearsals per week starting the week of April 8th. Tetrazzini will be performed every Saturday at 7pm, from May 11th thru May 25th, 2013 (3 performances) at the Underground Lounge - 952 W. Newport Ave., Chicago, IL 60657.  Rehearsals will be approximately 2-3 hours each.  No compensation as the shows will be free itself - this one's for the love of the art!     Audition Prep: Audition is based on 3 factors:  1.  a 1-3 minute contemporary monologue ; 2. cold read &  3. short improvised scene work.  Please bring a headshot and resume to the audition.  You will NOT be accepted without these.  To audition, pls sign up at the following link:   http://www.signupgenius.com/go/805044CAEA62F4-auditions5       For more information and/or any inquiries may be sent to the Director/Producer, Jonald Reyes, at jonald[at]mentalnotion.com.  Thank you.]]> tetrazzini-mnscover

tetrazzini-mnscover   The Mental Notion Society presents Tetrazzini's Last Hurrah Written by Jason Sebacher.  Directed / Produced by Jonald Jude Reyes.   Synopsis:  Fitz and Teddy--two estranged brothers--meet by chance while traveling to New York City to attend the last concert of a dying opera singer. How will these squabbling siblings manage to cut their way through the brambles, traps, and fearsome beasts of the urban jungle? How, indeed.  Tetrazzini's Last Hurrah is an 80-min comedic play that addresses issues such as politics, sex, and family.     The Mental Notion Society seeks one male actor to play the role of Fitz.  Age range from late 20's to early 30's.  Candidates should be a bit husky or of larger physique yet still agile w/the ability for minimal physical comedic bits.  Candidates should have a strong theatrical background (2-3+ yrs) with some improvisational training/experience (1-2+ yrs).     One Audition Date:  Saturday, March 30th, 2013 - between 1 - 4pm   Location:  Theatre Momentum, 1800 W. Cornelia, Chicago, IL 60657 (http://www.theatremomentum.com)     (Auditions shall be in Studio D.  Entrance in the back of the building.  If you're waiting for your timeslot, please wait within the hallway and NOT within the main building lobby.  Thank you.)     Time Commitment: 1 to 2 rehearsals per week starting the week of April 8th. Tetrazzini will be performed every Saturday at 7pm, from May 11th thru May 25th, 2013 (3 performances) at the Underground Lounge - 952 W. Newport Ave., Chicago, IL 60657.  Rehearsals will be approximately 2-3 hours each.  No compensation as the shows will be free itself - this one's for the love of the art!     Audition Prep: Audition is based on 3 factors:  1.  a 1-3 minute contemporary monologue ; 2. cold read &  3. short improvised scene work.  Please bring a headshot and resume to the audition.  You will NOT be accepted without these.  To audition, pls sign up at the following link:   http://www.signupgenius.com/go/805044CAEA62F4-auditions5       For more information and/or any inquiries may be sent to the Director/Producer, Jonald Reyes, at jonald[at]mentalnotion.com.  Thank you.]]> http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=435 0 MONO(logue): Help Me Find My Voice: April 18th-May 16th http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=410 http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=410#comments Mon, 18 Mar 2013 01:48:28 +0000 Mental Notion http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=410 mns-mono-cover1

  mono-postcard   A musician - his guitar.  His voice - the monologue.  The determination - this show.   Chris De Salvo is a working artist from Chicago, IL.  He likes sports, music, and shows like Cheers & Frasier.  The guy sounds like any other guy but what pushes him is the determination to get his voice out through his music.  The dissection of what makes music GOOD music is not a second thought for Chris as his acoustic style stems from what he knows works, which is also what he likes.  With influences from such bands as the White Stripes, the Beatles, and Queen, Chris has assembled his first fully composed & co-Directed performance piece entitled "Help Me Find My Voice" (a.k.a. "MONO(logue)").     MONO(logue): Help Me Find My Voice features Stephanie Brandenburg and Chris De Salvo.  Music & Lyrics by Chris De Salvo.  Monologues Co-Written by Kevin Chroust and Chris De Salvo.  Musical Direction by Brad Kemp.  Co-Directed by Jonald Jude Reyes and Chris De Salvo.   monovoice3     WHERE:  Studio BE - 3110 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL 60657     WHEN:  Preview - Sunday, March 31st, 2013 - 8pm ; then Every Thursday at 8pm from April 18th thru May 16th, 2013     TIX: $10/tix Buy in advance online = http://www.studio-be.org   FACEBOOK EVENT:  https://www.facebook.com/events/365088913606661   **Photography courtesy of Reich Productions = https://www.facebook.com/ReichProductions    ]]> mns-mono-cover1

  mono-postcard   A musician - his guitar.  His voice - the monologue.  The determination - this show.   Chris De Salvo is a working artist from Chicago, IL.  He likes sports, music, and shows like Cheers & Frasier.  The guy sounds like any other guy but what pushes him is the determination to get his voice out through his music.  The dissection of what makes music GOOD music is not a second thought for Chris as his acoustic style stems from what he knows works, which is also what he likes.  With influences from such bands as the White Stripes, the Beatles, and Queen, Chris has assembled his first fully composed & co-Directed performance piece entitled "Help Me Find My Voice" (a.k.a. "MONO(logue)").     MONO(logue): Help Me Find My Voice features Stephanie Brandenburg and Chris De Salvo.  Music & Lyrics by Chris De Salvo.  Monologues Co-Written by Kevin Chroust and Chris De Salvo.  Musical Direction by Brad Kemp.  Co-Directed by Jonald Jude Reyes and Chris De Salvo.   monovoice3     WHERE:  Studio BE - 3110 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL 60657     WHEN:  Preview - Sunday, March 31st, 2013 - 8pm ; then Every Thursday at 8pm from April 18th thru May 16th, 2013     TIX: $10/tix Buy in advance online = http://www.studio-be.org   FACEBOOK EVENT:  https://www.facebook.com/events/365088913606661   **Photography courtesy of Reich Productions = https://www.facebook.com/ReichProductions    ]]> http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=410 0 CTMComedy presents: “Damn! $2.50 For a Ride!” – April 5-19 http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=412 http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=412#comments Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:55:14 +0000 Mental Notion http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=412 mns-cover-Mar2013-1

IMG_0951 Chicago's comedy community continues to get stronger as more products of such schools (Annoyance, iO, and Second City) have been making more mainstream appearances on television & film recently.  As new faces have been hitting the stages around town, vets are still pumping out new material to keep in stride of simply making people laugh.   IMG_0693         You may recognize the faces in these pictures and remember that they made past appearances in the Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival and the Just For Laughs Festival.  Now these misfit minorities are back with a new name, a new point of view, and a new production company.  The Mental Notion Society is proud to announce the 3-week run of the Chicago Transit Minorities for April at Stage773.  Tickets are on sale now!                   WHAT:  The Chicago Transit Minorities present "DAMN! $2.50 For a Ride!"   WHERE:  Stage 773 - 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL 60657   WHEN:  Every Friday at 10:30pm from April 5th to April 19th (3 shows only!)   TIX:  $10/tix (with online service fee = $12) http://www.stage773.com   FACEBOOK EVENT:  https://www.facebook.com/events/151583808339261     IMG_0789The Chicago Transit Minorities featured players are Ed, Lupe, Kirsten, and "Buddha."  With contributing material from Jimmy, Janet, and Nosa, the culmination under the Direction of Jonald Jude Reyes, puts forth a mixed bag of music, monologues,  dramedy, and dance.  Each stop the CTM train makes is something different.  Be sure not to miss it!         Chicago Transit Minorities Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoTransitMinorities Twitter:  https://twitter.com/CTMcomedy   **Photographs courtesy of JC Photography    ]]> mns-cover-Mar2013-1

IMG_0951 Chicago's comedy community continues to get stronger as more products of such schools (Annoyance, iO, and Second City) have been making more mainstream appearances on television & film recently.  As new faces have been hitting the stages around town, vets are still pumping out new material to keep in stride of simply making people laugh.   IMG_0693         You may recognize the faces in these pictures and remember that they made past appearances in the Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival and the Just For Laughs Festival.  Now these misfit minorities are back with a new name, a new point of view, and a new production company.  The Mental Notion Society is proud to announce the 3-week run of the Chicago Transit Minorities for April at Stage773.  Tickets are on sale now!                   WHAT:  The Chicago Transit Minorities present "DAMN! $2.50 For a Ride!"   WHERE:  Stage 773 - 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL 60657   WHEN:  Every Friday at 10:30pm from April 5th to April 19th (3 shows only!)   TIX:  $10/tix (with online service fee = $12) http://www.stage773.com   FACEBOOK EVENT:  https://www.facebook.com/events/151583808339261     IMG_0789The Chicago Transit Minorities featured players are Ed, Lupe, Kirsten, and "Buddha."  With contributing material from Jimmy, Janet, and Nosa, the culmination under the Direction of Jonald Jude Reyes, puts forth a mixed bag of music, monologues,  dramedy, and dance.  Each stop the CTM train makes is something different.  Be sure not to miss it!         Chicago Transit Minorities Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoTransitMinorities Twitter:  https://twitter.com/CTMcomedy   **Photographs courtesy of JC Photography    ]]> http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=412 0 LET THE MAYHEM BEGIN! [Fight Club: A Project Mayhem Burlesque] http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=394 http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=394#comments Mon, 04 Mar 2013 18:22:13 +0000 Mental Notion http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=394 FightClub097-cov

It begins.  On Thursday, March 7th, 2013, at 8pm, a new play will strike mayhem on the burlesque theatre community.  With the work of the Mental Notion Society and Plan 9 Burlesque, the newly renovated Public House Theatre will feature their collaboration entitled - FIGHT CLUB:  A PROJECT MAYHEM BURLESQUE.        As based off of the novel and film, the Narrator and Taylor Durden form their fight club in Chicago.    And as the fight night grows into Project Mayhem, these space monkeys make their moves as choreographed by Stella Cheeks (Dance) and Bobby Hoffman (Stage Combat).     Under Direction of Jonald Jude Reyes, the play brings together 7 fighters attacking the stage for 6-weeks, every Thursday.    Fight Club: A Project Mayhem Burlesque features Ann Hauserbush, Bunny Bixby, Doxie Doll, Jane Goodforall, Marie Curieosity, Sadie Hotkins, and Towanda Lust.   Get your tickets in advance!     WHEN:  Every Thursday at 8pm - March 7th thru April 11th, 2013     WHERE: The Public House Theatre - 3914 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60613 [SIDENOTE:  Congrats to the crew of the Public House Theatre, of previous name - The Pub Theater.  They bring a new look to their well known Bye Bye Liver show in a new venue within the Lakeview/Wrigleyville area.  Best of luck and success of awesome shows to come!]     TIX: Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at the theatre box office or online: http://www.thepubtheater.com   FACEBOOK EVENT:   https://www.facebook.com/events/499817626723260   Check out what other fun stuff Plan 9 does around town = http://www.plan9burlesque.com   **Special thanks to the Fight Club production crew including Smyra Y. (Stage Management) ; Drew C. (Tech/Lighting) ; Brad R. (Tech / Lighting) ; and the Public House.    THE MENTAL NOTION SOCIETY 2013]]> FightClub097-cov

It begins.  On Thursday, March 7th, 2013, at 8pm, a new play will strike mayhem on the burlesque theatre community.  With the work of the Mental Notion Society and Plan 9 Burlesque, the newly renovated Public House Theatre will feature their collaboration entitled - FIGHT CLUB:  A PROJECT MAYHEM BURLESQUE.        As based off of the novel and film, the Narrator and Taylor Durden form their fight club in Chicago.    And as the fight night grows into Project Mayhem, these space monkeys make their moves as choreographed by Stella Cheeks (Dance) and Bobby Hoffman (Stage Combat).     Under Direction of Jonald Jude Reyes, the play brings together 7 fighters attacking the stage for 6-weeks, every Thursday.    Fight Club: A Project Mayhem Burlesque features Ann Hauserbush, Bunny Bixby, Doxie Doll, Jane Goodforall, Marie Curieosity, Sadie Hotkins, and Towanda Lust.   Get your tickets in advance!     WHEN:  Every Thursday at 8pm - March 7th thru April 11th, 2013     WHERE: The Public House Theatre - 3914 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60613 [SIDENOTE:  Congrats to the crew of the Public House Theatre, of previous name - The Pub Theater.  They bring a new look to their well known Bye Bye Liver show in a new venue within the Lakeview/Wrigleyville area.  Best of luck and success of awesome shows to come!]     TIX: Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at the theatre box office or online: http://www.thepubtheater.com   FACEBOOK EVENT:   https://www.facebook.com/events/499817626723260   Check out what other fun stuff Plan 9 does around town = http://www.plan9burlesque.com   **Special thanks to the Fight Club production crew including Smyra Y. (Stage Management) ; Drew C. (Tech/Lighting) ; Brad R. (Tech / Lighting) ; and the Public House.    THE MENTAL NOTION SOCIETY 2013]]> http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=394 0 Ale Obsession Filming Update http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=369 http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=369#comments Mon, 18 Feb 2013 18:51:58 +0000 Mental Notion http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=369 ale-obsession-filming1

  There's always something reinvigorating when the production of a creative project is in full swing.  The pre-production phase gets lots of ideas flowing, but when it's in "real time" and the ideas are able to flow out into the work, then the project as a whole gains another spark of motivation.      "Ale Obsession" started in idea form back in November of 2012, then script form, then casting / auditioning, then assembling the crew, and now we're filming.  Scheduling into filming / scheduling into filming / and more scheduling into filming!  Footage has been gathering, gigabytes have been occupied, and specific scenes are slowly coming into "wrap ups!"  In not giving in too much of a reveal to the story, the following are a few production notes:   DAY 1 - MATTY & ARA     Internal thought from the beginning - "let's just film and see what happens."  The Director, Jonald Reyes, worked with the film crew (Sean Mogridge & Brett Hartle) to get a better perspective of blocking for shot selection, lighting, and keeping in elements for what's needed within the scene.  As this is your typical low budget indie film, we utilized one of the actors' apartments (much like other scenes) and knowing that, had to prepare for smaller spacing and internal lighting issues.  Also, something emphasized from the beginning of the process was how important sound would be, so the handy film crew was able to provide the right equipment in recording.  With that, it was actually very helpful that we were in close proximities then.    The actors for this evening were actually the co-writers of the short (Julie Chereson & Bryna Berezowska), which made character motivation already preconceived by each of them.  Although character background was set, the content of the scene needed the set-up & weight Directed by Jonald.  Each person's role added important factors to the production as a whole and Day 1 was a great indication of how the rest of the process would be like.    Thanks to Alex & Bella for the veggie chilli & use of the space.    DAY 2 - HALLWAY & PARTY   We must thank Chris, Allison, Jason, & Liz for their time in playing party extras.  We all know how difficult it can be to drink and eat for 3 to 4 hours (yes, that was sarcasm).  But really, the production crew would like to thank them for their patience and helping us create the right scene by standing/moving in places during the shoot.    We also want to give additional thanks to Chris & Allison in helping with the location as it definitely helped set-up the scene in the right context.  Party scenes can truly test a film crew when you have to play to the amount of people by ear.  In addition to the noted film crew, what made this process have an easier flow was the added personnel of Mr. Jon Colomb as sound tech/boom operator.    His added services made the filming unit, as a whole, stronger & more professional.    2 scenes were filmed back to back.  There was one short scene to be captured within the hallway, but in not overestimating or taking a "short/simple scene" for granted, the crew made sure to capture enough takes of Bryna (Ara) exiting the party.  We wanted to film this first and have it recorded now before possibly forgetting to capture later.    The party scene was a different obstacle as the spacing was actually larger.  More spacing & people give thoughts to sound & lighting.  Angles were easier to pull off, but in keeping fashion to the look of the production, we wanted to make sure the right "feelings" were being captured.  Its quite interesting when a lens is the tool that captures the vibe of an actor and churnes it into feelings we want to make come out of the audience.  Aesthetics has played as much of an additional role to the creativity of shot selection.    Natural work from Alexis Meuche & Alex Berezowska as "beer nerds."  Sometimes the ease of acting comes from playing yourself but the difficulty can be just as the same (with what is self?).  A guage had to be set by Jonald for how much emotion needed to be conveyed by Bryna, Alex, & Alexis.  With a darker/serious tone to this short film, sometimes its really just a matter of subtlety.    DAY 3 - MATTY & GREG / CHET   Thanks to Joe & Julie on the use of their apartment as location.  The banana bread in the end made the film's crew work that more gratifying to accomplish.    We came across an outside element that was not expected, which was the beast known as their heater.  In keeping clean with sound, we needed to close their windows which made the apartment grow toasty.  However, during the progression of the shoot, the heater began to "talk" to us with its clanks and hisses which made us take multiple breaks to let the noise pass.    After awhile, Jon muffled the sound a bit with coats over the heater.  We were able to get what we needed within the time frame that we set.   A lot of the scenes that we've filmed to this time have had elements of seriousness, but more dramatic awkward or internal frustration beats.  The Matty & Greg scene was, in all honesty, just a straight up fight waiting to happen.  Joe Gennaro and Julie were great at letting the weight and intensity of the scene gradually rise at a fast pace while keeping it organic.  Jonald played with the exercise of silence as tension.  And in a method approach of thinking, the physical temperature rise may have subliminally helped.    2 filming notes - 1.  cats keep following us and 2. Brett has no shame.   Afterwards, filming the Chet scene was basic yet just as the previous note re: Joe & Julie, Jose Molina was just as good at letting his intensity & anger grow quick yet natural.      We need to thank the kindness of the wait staff and management at "the restaurant" we filmed at.  Their ease at letting us do our quick interview-style scene helped us out immensely.  Just a simple backdrop with no noticeable images of what city or establishment we were in.  Totally neutral.  (Something to keep in mind for you young indie filmmakers when playing with copyrights or location selections.)  In a way, the setting also assisted in having Jose deliver his anger in a stern, grounded way vs. a loud rage (due to real costumers there eating), which keeps it in the constricting vibe of the film as a whole.     Jon was great at ensuring our sound was obtained while staying clear of the background music playing at the restaurant speakers.    There's more to come as filming continues.    Thanks to everyone involved in this project.  And stay tuned to the Mental Notion website/Facebook page for details along the way.   ]]> ale-obsession-filming1

  There's always something reinvigorating when the production of a creative project is in full swing.  The pre-production phase gets lots of ideas flowing, but when it's in "real time" and the ideas are able to flow out into the work, then the project as a whole gains another spark of motivation.      "Ale Obsession" started in idea form back in November of 2012, then script form, then casting / auditioning, then assembling the crew, and now we're filming.  Scheduling into filming / scheduling into filming / and more scheduling into filming!  Footage has been gathering, gigabytes have been occupied, and specific scenes are slowly coming into "wrap ups!"  In not giving in too much of a reveal to the story, the following are a few production notes:   DAY 1 - MATTY & ARA     Internal thought from the beginning - "let's just film and see what happens."  The Director, Jonald Reyes, worked with the film crew (Sean Mogridge & Brett Hartle) to get a better perspective of blocking for shot selection, lighting, and keeping in elements for what's needed within the scene.  As this is your typical low budget indie film, we utilized one of the actors' apartments (much like other scenes) and knowing that, had to prepare for smaller spacing and internal lighting issues.  Also, something emphasized from the beginning of the process was how important sound would be, so the handy film crew was able to provide the right equipment in recording.  With that, it was actually very helpful that we were in close proximities then.    The actors for this evening were actually the co-writers of the short (Julie Chereson & Bryna Berezowska), which made character motivation already preconceived by each of them.  Although character background was set, the content of the scene needed the set-up & weight Directed by Jonald.  Each person's role added important factors to the production as a whole and Day 1 was a great indication of how the rest of the process would be like.    Thanks to Alex & Bella for the veggie chilli & use of the space.    DAY 2 - HALLWAY & PARTY   We must thank Chris, Allison, Jason, & Liz for their time in playing party extras.  We all know how difficult it can be to drink and eat for 3 to 4 hours (yes, that was sarcasm).  But really, the production crew would like to thank them for their patience and helping us create the right scene by standing/moving in places during the shoot.    We also want to give additional thanks to Chris & Allison in helping with the location as it definitely helped set-up the scene in the right context.  Party scenes can truly test a film crew when you have to play to the amount of people by ear.  In addition to the noted film crew, what made this process have an easier flow was the added personnel of Mr. Jon Colomb as sound tech/boom operator.    His added services made the filming unit, as a whole, stronger & more professional.    2 scenes were filmed back to back.  There was one short scene to be captured within the hallway, but in not overestimating or taking a "short/simple scene" for granted, the crew made sure to capture enough takes of Bryna (Ara) exiting the party.  We wanted to film this first and have it recorded now before possibly forgetting to capture later.    The party scene was a different obstacle as the spacing was actually larger.  More spacing & people give thoughts to sound & lighting.  Angles were easier to pull off, but in keeping fashion to the look of the production, we wanted to make sure the right "feelings" were being captured.  Its quite interesting when a lens is the tool that captures the vibe of an actor and churnes it into feelings we want to make come out of the audience.  Aesthetics has played as much of an additional role to the creativity of shot selection.    Natural work from Alexis Meuche & Alex Berezowska as "beer nerds."  Sometimes the ease of acting comes from playing yourself but the difficulty can be just as the same (with what is self?).  A guage had to be set by Jonald for how much emotion needed to be conveyed by Bryna, Alex, & Alexis.  With a darker/serious tone to this short film, sometimes its really just a matter of subtlety.    DAY 3 - MATTY & GREG / CHET   Thanks to Joe & Julie on the use of their apartment as location.  The banana bread in the end made the film's crew work that more gratifying to accomplish.    We came across an outside element that was not expected, which was the beast known as their heater.  In keeping clean with sound, we needed to close their windows which made the apartment grow toasty.  However, during the progression of the shoot, the heater began to "talk" to us with its clanks and hisses which made us take multiple breaks to let the noise pass.    After awhile, Jon muffled the sound a bit with coats over the heater.  We were able to get what we needed within the time frame that we set.   A lot of the scenes that we've filmed to this time have had elements of seriousness, but more dramatic awkward or internal frustration beats.  The Matty & Greg scene was, in all honesty, just a straight up fight waiting to happen.  Joe Gennaro and Julie were great at letting the weight and intensity of the scene gradually rise at a fast pace while keeping it organic.  Jonald played with the exercise of silence as tension.  And in a method approach of thinking, the physical temperature rise may have subliminally helped.    2 filming notes - 1.  cats keep following us and 2. Brett has no shame.   Afterwards, filming the Chet scene was basic yet just as the previous note re: Joe & Julie, Jose Molina was just as good at letting his intensity & anger grow quick yet natural.      We need to thank the kindness of the wait staff and management at "the restaurant" we filmed at.  Their ease at letting us do our quick interview-style scene helped us out immensely.  Just a simple backdrop with no noticeable images of what city or establishment we were in.  Totally neutral.  (Something to keep in mind for you young indie filmmakers when playing with copyrights or location selections.)  In a way, the setting also assisted in having Jose deliver his anger in a stern, grounded way vs. a loud rage (due to real costumers there eating), which keeps it in the constricting vibe of the film as a whole.     Jon was great at ensuring our sound was obtained while staying clear of the background music playing at the restaurant speakers.    There's more to come as filming continues.    Thanks to everyone involved in this project.  And stay tuned to the Mental Notion website/Facebook page for details along the way.   ]]> http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=369 0 MONO(logue) of One Person http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=361 http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=361#comments Fri, 01 Feb 2013 06:44:38 +0000 Mental Notion http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?p=361 _MG_0022rp

  Mr. Chris De Salvo entered the world of the MENTAL NOTION SOCIETY during the tenure of the play, Yellowstone: A Twilight Zone Musical (Pub Theater, 2012).  After that stint, he made an appearance at the Mental Notion Society 2 Year Anniversary (Ace Bar, 2012).  And what followed was the next step for a musician/actor that's driven to make a mark - a one-person play, entitled MONO(logue).   Synopsis:  With a concoction of music, scenes, and of course, monologues, Chris De Salvo presents (Mono)logue - an in-depth look at the positives & negatives of the artist as a musician, a lover, and a human.  Written & Composed by Chris De Salvo.  Musical Direction by Brad Kemp.  Co-Directed by Chris De Salvo & Jonald Reyes.  Produced by the Mental Notion Society.   For people to cure their interest in the sounds of De Salvo, he has 2 performances at the well known Davenport's Piano Bar.  The Mental Notion Society and De Salvo encourage friends, family, and peers to come and enjoy these tunes.   WHO:  Chris De Salvo WHERE:  Davenport's Piano Bar - 1383 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60622 WHEN:  Monday, Feb. 18th & Feb. 25th at 8pm.     Then after the lyrics and musical notes tug at your ear, we further encourage you to attend De Salvo's MONO(logue), set to premiere at the Studio BE Theater.  As follows:   WHAT:  MONO(logue) WHERE:  Studio BE - 3110 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL  60657 WHEN:  **Preview on Sunday, March 31st, 2013 at 7pm 5 show run - every Thursday, April 18th to May 16th, 2013 at 8pm.   Amongst fellow actors to assist in the process, we would like to welcome Stephanie Brandenburg.  Although a one-person play, MONO(logue) intertwines with other players to represent images/feelings/"ghosts" within the world De Salvo has created.   Stephanie joins the cast after a talent-full pool of auditioning actors.  The Mental Notion Society thanks the community of auditioners!  And as always - more auditions on the Mental Notion website for future reference.   Looking forward to seeing you all at Davenports.  Cheers. ***Photos courtesy of Reich Productions - https://www.facebook.com/ReichProductions   MENTAL NOTION SOCIETY 2013]]> _MG_0022rp

  Mr. Chris De Salvo entered the world of the MENTAL NOTION SOCIETY during the tenure of the play, Yellowstone: A Twilight Zone Musical (Pub Theater, 2012).  After that stint, he made an appearance at the Mental Notion Society 2 Year Anniversary (Ace Bar, 2012).  And what followed was the next step for a musician/actor that's driven to make a mark - a one-person play, entitled MONO(logue).   Synopsis:  With a concoction of music, scenes, and of course, monologues, Chris De Salvo presents (Mono)logue - an in-depth look at the positives & negatives of the artist as a musician, a lover, and a human.  Written & Composed by Chris De Salvo.  Musical Direction by Brad Kemp.  Co-Directed by Chris De Salvo & Jonald Reyes.  Produced by the Mental Notion Society.   For people to cure their interest in the sounds of De Salvo, he has 2 performances at the well known Davenport's Piano Bar.  The Mental Notion Society and De Salvo encourage friends, family, and peers to come and enjoy these tunes.   WHO:  Chris De Salvo WHERE:  Davenport's Piano Bar - 1383 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60622 WHEN:  Monday, Feb. 18th & Feb. 25th at 8pm.     Then after the lyrics and musical notes tug at your ear, we further encourage you to attend De Salvo's MONO(logue), set to premiere at the Studio BE Theater.  As follows:   WHAT:  MONO(logue) WHERE:  Studio BE - 3110 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL  60657 WHEN:  **Preview on Sunday, March 31st, 2013 at 7pm 5 show run - every Thursday, April 18th to May 16th, 2013 at 8pm.   Amongst fellow actors to assist in the process, we would like to welcome Stephanie Brandenburg.  Although a one-person play, MONO(logue) intertwines with other players to represent images/feelings/"ghosts" within the world De Salvo has created.   Stephanie joins the cast after a talent-full pool of auditioning actors.  The Mental Notion Society thanks the community of auditioners!  And as always - more auditions on the Mental Notion website for future reference.   Looking forward to seeing you all at Davenports.  Cheers. ***Photos courtesy of Reich Productions - https://www.facebook.com/ReichProductions   MENTAL NOTION SOCIETY 2013]]> http://mentalnotion.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=361 1