THIS IS NOT A PIPE DREAM, A PLAY FOR FAMILY AUDIENCES

"Charming and Extraordinary" "Audiences will leave with an appreciation...for the power of art to transform the ordinary into the wonderful" -- The New York Times

This Is Not a Pipe Dream is a multimedia theatrical fantasia that allows audience members young and old to enter the magical world of surrealist painter Rene Magritte. The Belgian artist was renowned for creating whimsical, absurd paintings adored by all ages. This Is Not a Pipe Dream takes its name from one of his most famous creations, a painting of a pipe with the French message "This Is Not a Pipe" written underneath.

The play offers a glimpse of Magritte's early years when his unique vision of the world left him feeling ostracized, and his one possible outlet was taken by his father who refused to let him take art lessons. Using projected images and theatrical recreations of Magritte's beloved work, the play illuminates his inspiring story. This Is Not a Pipe Dream also seamlessly blends magic realism with physical comedy. The play captures the dreamlike quality of Magritte's paintings, and borrows elements from silent films, farce, and vaudeville to create its over-the-top slapstick humor. This Is Not a Pipe Dream encourages everyone to learn from Rene Magritte and pursue their pipe (and not so pipe) dreams.

This Is Not a Pipe Dream will be directed by SUNY Purchase professor and Drama League Fellow Tracy Bersley and feature a score by Emmy-nominated composer Gil Talmi (CBS Evening News, The Mummy Who Would Be King, Yu-Gi-Oh).


Cast: Gil Talmi-Sound , Gwen Brownson-Producer , Laura Brownson-Producer , Hester Wagner-Costumes , Jeff VanVelsor-Set Design , David Brown, Wali Collins, Alex Pierce, Isabel Steubel- Johnson, Cherry Lou Sy