Immersive theater experience comes to the College of Saint Benedict

For a brief time, the Gorecki Family Theater will transform into an underwater Mediterranean world of wonder where audiences have a chance to become part of the magical experience.

The College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University's Fine Arts Series present Compaigna T.P.O.'s production of Blue! at 7 p.m. Friday, May 2, and at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, May 3, in Gorecki Family Theater, Benedicta Arts Center of the College of Saint Benedict.

Blue! begins on the idyllic Greek Islands, wanders through bustling sea ports then dives into the deep blue abyss where audiences are surrounded by fish, seaweed and mysterious ruins of disappeared civilizations. Compaigna T.P.O is a pioneering Italian company that is integrating new technologies into theatrical performances. Blue! features a unique set that transforms each show into an interactive experience for the audience.

Projected images and sounds make participants a part of this magical underwater world. The stage space features a system of sensors that allow performers to alter the sound and images through their own movement. These technologies make it possible to create 'sensitive' environments where audiences are invited to participate in an immersive, dynamic experience that is ideal for families.

The audience will be seated on stage so seating is limited. Tickets for Compagnia T.P.O. Blue! are $20, senior $17 and student/youth $10. For more information, contact the Box Office at 320-363-5777 or visit www.csbsju.edu/fine-arts.

In addition to the three public performances, Compaigna T.P.O. will also present three closed performances for area youth: two performances for special education students from area schools and one performance for pediatric oncology patients.

Blue! is sponsored in part by Thomsens Greenhouse and Garden Center.

These activities are made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

These activities are funded in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts - ArtWorks program.