Secret Nashville Locations Begins Unique Theater Adventure

Amy Stumpfl, For The Tennessean
Sunday, October 2, 2016 

Typically, we think of live theater as an opportunity to sit back and observe, watching the performance unfold from a distance. But according to the Australian theater company “one step at a time like this,” the audience has its own role to play — and it’s one that actually brings deeper meaning to the work.

Known for its unique “participatory, locative and site-responsive works,” this celebrated company will brings its acclaimed journey performance “Since I Suppose” to the streets of downtown Nashville this week.

Based on Shakespeare’s classic urban play, “Measure for Measure,” the piece physically takes the audience on a fully immersive theatrical adventure. Armed with a smartphone that has been outfitted with a custom app and wearing a headset to guide them through the performance, participants will walk — one person at a time — from location to location, experiencing the Bard’s timeless tale like never before.

“It’s one of the most visceral experiences I’ve ever had,” says OZ Arts Nashville Artistic Director Lauren Snelling, who first experienced “Since I Suppose” during its 2014 world premiere in Chicago. “It allows you to be something of a voyeur, as you follow and connect with the characters. But the emotional arc is quite wide. And because you’re not sitting in a theater, everything is a bit heightened — there’s a deeper connection, and your response is very honest and immediate. At times you might feel frustrated or judgmental about the characters’ choices. But you can’t help but feel great empathy — it’s really quite powerful.”

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