OH, THOSE BEAUTIFUL WEIMAR GIRLS

It is based on the life and artistry of the actor/dancer/poet who epitomized for many the decadence of Weimar era Berlin. The play was inspired by "The Seven Addictions and Five Professions of Anita Berber" by Berber's principal biographer, Mel Gordon, which dubs her "Weimar Berlin's Priestess of Depravity." Choreography is by Julia Atlas Muz and Peter Schmitz.

With original and classical music, dance and striking stage design, the production will recreate Anita Berber's life in a series of cabaret-styled performances, including much of her "repertoire of the damned." This play occurs 80 years after her tragic passing and aims, according to playwright Mark Altman, to "capture her indomitable spirit and inspire young and old alike to rage against the night." Lighting design is by Federico Restrepo. Costume design is by Javier Bone Carbone.

In an era where everything was permitted, Anita Berber's celebrations of "Depravity, Horror and Ecstacy" were condemned and censored. She appeared in nightclubs and casinos, naked except for a sable wrap and a pet monkey hanging from her neck. Her body was thin and androgynous; her bright red hair was cut in a rebellious bob and a silver brooch filled with cocaine usually hung around her neck. She and her frequent collaborator/dance partner, Sebastian Droste, came to represent the decadence of Weimar Berlin with their nude dancing, drug use and flamboyant sex lives.

The cast includes: Javier Bone Carbone, Kaylin Lee Clinton, Markus Hirnigel, Lisa Kathryn Hokans, Denice Kondik, Sarah Lemp, Florencia Minniti, Madeline Pramik, John Rosania, Kat Ross, Jade Rothman, Christine Ann Ryndak and Jeanne Lauren Smith.