The Play

Worlds collide as this 17th century Spanish play, set in feudal Poland and performed in 21st century America, is staged in a dive bar rock show atmosphere inside The Building Stage. Using their devised approach, the company tackles this classic investigation of leadership, politics, public responsibility, and self-determination -- just in time for election season.

Beyond the political nature of the play, Calderon was also concerned with the philosophical implications of living in a world where nothing is permanent and power is just an illusion. With just five actors masquerading as the seven major characters (as well as the scores of servants, courtiers, and soldiers) the play requires, the lines between illusion and reality are further blurred.

• This life’s so strange
• Living it is just a dream
• Everyone who lives
• is only dreaming who they are til they awake.

Calderon's poetic world comes to life with equal parts comedy, melodrama, philosophy, and live music.

The Event

The evening functions like a rock show at a small club or dive bar. Once doors open, guests are welcome to grab refreshments on sale at the theater, mingle, and stake their claim to a seat at the bar or in the cabaret seats. Once the live performances begin, acts of Life is a Dream will alternate with sets of live music. The live performances should last a little over 2 hours. Maintaining the club vibe, the theater will stay open for an hour after the performances