The 50-odd performing groups in the eight-week “festival of Chicago’s international arts” include a dozen theater companies; those performing October 24 through 31 are described below. These listings refer to theater and performance art offerings only; on nights when only one theater company is listed here, be assured at least one other program of music, dance, or poetry is also planned, with discount prices available to viewers buying a ticket to all performances on a single night. (A pass to the whole festival costs $40.) All events (which are subject to change) take place at the Blue Rider Theatre, 1822 S. Halsted; for more information, call 733-4668.
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SOCK MONKEYS This group that blends movement, sound, and poetry performs pieces from its repertoire (including Gas Works Wall, Chilly Gentilly, and Fish Tales), along with revised work (Guava Fives) and a brand-new piece, The King Is Dead. 8 PM. $6; $10 for admission to this and the performance by Bob Eisen Dance at 9:15 PM.
SOCK MONKEYS See listing under Thursday, October 24. 8 PM. $6; $ 10 for admission to this and the performance by Theater Oobleck later this evening.
REDMOON THEATER This company directed by Blair Thomas amplifies the efforts of its human actors with elements of mask art and puppetry; its new work Dumb Show, a Real Live Fable is an allegory about the human condition in which four characters make their way through life under the guidance of an amoral angel. Music is provided by Las Toallitas, the Latin jazz-rock band heard recently at Club Lower Links’ Cide Show series. 9:15 PM. $6; $10 for admission this and the Sock Monkeys performance that precedes it.
KAJA OVERSTREET Among the several pieces in this performance artist’s program is the premiere of Judy, Judy…Oh Judy, which employs life-size puppets and classic “Punch and Judy” dialogue to study “the idealization of violence against women.” 8 PM. $6; $10 for this and the performance by Stephen Lapthisophon later this evening.
