THEATRE
Muses IV
Presented by
The Vestige Group
August 27-September 12, 2010
Avg. Event Rating (4.4 Stars):
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Launching the second production in their fifth anniversary season, The Vestige Group is excited to present their award-nominated series of Muses: Memories of a House. After three successful runs beginning with the original Muses in 2007, Muses IV continues the annual tradition of creating "theatrical magic," in the intimacy of a home setting, quotes the Austin Chronicle.
Muses IV provides a new twist this year from the past productions. Muses I - III featured many individuals' lives throughout the house, creating distinctly unique times and settings as the audience stepped through each doorway. This year, local Austin playwrights are provided with a snapshot of a family of five characters who live in the house. While traveling from room to room in this beautiful and historical home, audience members will happen upon moments that construct the web of this family's history, blurring the line between time, real life, and the theatre. From photographs and a tour inside the house, playwrights create scenes that bring each room to life in a different way.
This year's Muses will take place at the home of Rod and Candyce Russell. The home is located in South Lamar area.
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At-a-
Glance
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Venue Info
Private Home
Austin, TX 78704
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Admission Info
Regular Ticket Info:
Sliding Scale $15-$25
Sundays Pay as you like at door. Reservations Required at thevestigegroup@gmail.com.
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Dates & Times
Dates:
August 27-September 12, 2010
Times:
8pm
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Accessibility Info
Currently, no accessibility information is available for this event.
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Video & Image Gallery
Currently, additional images/videos have not been submitted for this event.
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Member Reviews
Add review/comment
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Event Name: Muses IV
"Unique and Intimate Theater"
Review
posted by:
Ruby Sinclair
from Austin, TX,
Sep 15, 2010
You can tell a lot about a person when you step inside their home. You can tell a lot by a theatre company when you step inside the home they borrow and perform an evening of dramatic experiences....
Expand
You can tell a lot about a person when you step inside their home. You can tell a lot by a theatre company when you step inside the home they borrow and perform an evening of dramatic experiences. The Vestige Group delivers! This was my second Muses experience and I found it quite enjoyable and moving. This has officially become one of the yearly things that I do here in Austin!!
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Muses IV Deserves Every Star You Have"
Review
posted by:
AustinDetailsArt.com
from 1,
Sep 02, 2010
a historic home in South Austin loaded with
secret passageways, upstairs kitchens,
outdoor enclaves, a real study overflowing
with books, funky-to-chic collectibles and 17
talented actors,...
Expand
a historic home in South Austin loaded with
secret passageways, upstairs kitchens,
outdoor enclaves, a real study overflowing
with books, funky-to-chic collectibles and 17
talented actors, performing in several rooms
at once to tell the story of the house—or
more importantly, its “occupants,” as their
relationships are challenged and shift over
time. you won’t find out the performance
location until you buy the tickets (which you
should, right away), and the home’s true-life
occupants, who are justifiably proud of its
restoration and vintage chic, will welcome
you. while awaiting the start of the plays,
you’ll mingle on the covered front porch
(complete with a swing) with some of the
actors, directors, writers and patrons—
without any idea which is which. it’s a
mystery that unfolds throughout the evening
as soon as you walk up the porch steps.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Be Amused"
Review
posted by:
Stephen
from Austin TX,
Sep 01, 2010
For those wishing a close experience between actor and audience The Vestage Group's production of Muses IV Memories of a House is just the ticket. Before I go in depth there are a few things one...
Expand
For those wishing a close experience between actor and audience The Vestage Group's production of Muses IV Memories of a House is just the ticket. Before I go in depth there are a few things one should know about coming to this production. First be prepared to be coming to a house and that its someone actual house. You will be moving around inside and out. Wear shoes that going up and down stairs can happen and being out in the grass for a brief walk. Bring a few dollars for inexpensive refreshments as there is no real intermission and you are outside some. Last but not least is make a reservation for seeing show. There are no walk ups as the show is designed to take groups in sizes of 10 or less and show them the 10 well played scenes.
Muses IV is a combination of 10 stories that take place on the property. The actors bring a wide range of talent and each story offers something to the audience. The actors have a great amount of concentration as the audience is within arms length.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Up-close, personal, and creative."
Review
posted by:
Jay Y.
from Austin, TX,
Aug 31, 2010
I had vaguely heard of the Vestige Group's Muses series, and decided to go last weekend. I am glad I did. It is probably the most unique form of theatre that I have personally witnessed. Basically, 3...
Expand
I had vaguely heard of the Vestige Group's Muses series, and decided to go last weekend. I am glad I did. It is probably the most unique form of theatre that I have personally witnessed. Basically, 3 groups of about 10 tour a private house in the South Lamar area, and actors perform scenes with a common thread of characters inhabiting the house. Several characters remain constant, such as Winston, his alcoholic wife, and his religious daughter. It is interesting to see different actors portray the same characters. If there is another group that performs scripted material in a non-stage setting, I am not aware of them. All of the actors did a good job, especially considering the fact that they had to maintain character with the audience just feet away from them, not to mention with cars roaring past and whatever noise the neighbors made. I heartily recommend Muses IV to Austin arts fans- you will find something unique here.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"A day in the life of..."
Review
posted by:
Angela Garner
from Austin, TX,
Aug 31, 2010
If you're looking for something a little more intimate than just breaking that third wall, Muses IV: Memories of a House immerses you into every scene. Traditionally, the Muse series takes the...
Expand
If you're looking for something a little more intimate than just breaking that third wall, Muses IV: Memories of a House immerses you into every scene. Traditionally, the Muse series takes the audience on an adventure through disjointed scenes and stories, but this time around there is a link between scenes. Each scene is a unique snapshot of one family, and the audience gets to act as a sort of fly on the wall, but sometimes more. The script holds strong and thought provoking material, and the acting is excellent. The intimate setting not only provides a close feel with those on stage, but also fellow audience members. Lines begin to blur on whether you are an audience member as your position only takes you closer to the action in every scene. Remember to dress appropriately for the inclusion of outdoor weather!
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Inventive Theater With A Fun, Dissembled Narrative"
Review
posted by:
Xaq Webb
from Austin, TX,
Aug 31, 2010
This was my first time seeing a show by the Vestige
Group and I was really impressed. "Muses" takes
small, limited audiences through a tour of a
beautiful South Austin home, while showing scenes...
Expand
This was my first time seeing a show by the Vestige
Group and I was really impressed. "Muses" takes
small, limited audiences through a tour of a
beautiful South Austin home, while showing scenes
in various areas, which span the 30-ish years of a
family's life and memories in the house. Some of
the best playwrights in Austin contributed to this
awesome show, with the most memorable scenes
coming from Trey Deason, who was nominated for
a B. Iden Payne Award for his work in last year's
"Muses". Many of the actors were fresh faces to me,
but gave sometimes-funny, sometimes-stirringly
powerful performances. The limited audience size
adds a wonderful air of exclusivity if you are a part
of it, but it also means you should act fast to
reserve your seat: This show has been selling out,
and with good reason! This show is definitely worth
seeing, especially if you enjoy seeing how versatile
theater can be.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Solid, Thoughtful Production"
Review
posted by:
Bethany Harbaugh
from Austin, TX,
Aug 30, 2010
Though this is the 4th year of "Muses," this was my first time attending the series. I found the concept interesting and the cast extremely capable of capturing these pivotal moments in time. In...
Expand
Though this is the 4th year of "Muses," this was my first time attending the series. I found the concept interesting and the cast extremely capable of capturing these pivotal moments in time. In particular, Kacy Todd and Jeff Gibbs brought execptional clarity and subtle nuance to their respective characters and scenes. I found the added "game" of piecing each character's story together as the night progressed to be a nice bonus (the timeline for the scenes is not solid). I was impressed with each actor's ability to stay "in the moment," even with audience members pratically in their laps or cars roaring past. The only downside I saw for the whole evening was that at times, you would be watching one scene, but could see actors get in place for another scene in the background. But, as a testmant to the ablities of the actors, I generally stayed completely focused on the scene in front of me.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"A Peek Behind Pocket Doors"
Review
posted by:
Vicki McKain
from Austin, TX,
Aug 28, 2010
I was intriqued by the creative idea of theater staged in various rooms and outside areas of a home. The beautiful, old house used provides a perfect setting for the ten scenes that reveal touching,...
Expand
I was intriqued by the creative idea of theater staged in various rooms and outside areas of a home. The beautiful, old house used provides a perfect setting for the ten scenes that reveal touching, funny, and sad events in the characters' lives. This is intimate theater. Small groups of audience members sit close, often very close to the actors, such as sitting around the dining room table. This production is cleverly written and exceptionally portrayed (involving 8 playwrights, 16 actors, 5 directors, and other company members). The stories and actors are engaging. Positive accolades are too numerous for the space. Wear comfortable, cool clothes. The evening began breezy for the preshow gathering and first memory in the front yard, but was quite warm for a few scenes in the backyard. However, that did not detract from the enjoyment of the evening. This is a unique and delightful theater experience.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Moving through Memories in the Rooms of a House"
Review
posted by:
Pammyla Brooks
from Austin, Texas,
Aug 28, 2010
I have been curious about the Muses project where the audience moves from room to room watching scenes in a different house each year. This year, the writers were given the story of one family, and...
Expand
I have been curious about the Muses project where the audience moves from room to room watching scenes in a different house each year. This year, the writers were given the story of one family, and the writers wrote scenes that may have occurred in different rooms of the house. What a fascinating concept! We were treated to a spectacular house as a backdrop, with brilliant colors, eye-capturing art, fun furniture, and the best percussion instrument from Vietnam that was so much fun to play. I was fortunate to meet the owner of the house, who had a sparking presence. As you might guess, some of the 10 scenes are better than others, and all provide glimpses into the innermost workings of a family. Be warned that different actors play the same characters, and that the scenes are not time-ordered, as that threw me until the 4th scene. Also, bring bug spray because half are outside. Ok, I admit I’m hooked, and look forward to being a part of the annual lively Muses tradition.
Collapse
-
Media
Gallery
-
Member
Reviews
-
Member Reviews
Add review/comment
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Unique and Intimate Theater"
Review
posted by:
Ruby Sinclair
from Austin, TX,
Sep 15, 2010
You can tell a lot about a person when you step inside their home. You can tell a lot by a theatre company when you step inside the home they borrow and perform an evening of dramatic experiences....
Expand
You can tell a lot about a person when you step inside their home. You can tell a lot by a theatre company when you step inside the home they borrow and perform an evening of dramatic experiences. The Vestige Group delivers! This was my second Muses experience and I found it quite enjoyable and moving. This has officially become one of the yearly things that I do here in Austin!!
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Muses IV Deserves Every Star You Have"
Review
posted by:
AustinDetailsArt.com
from 1,
Sep 02, 2010
a historic home in South Austin loaded with
secret passageways, upstairs kitchens,
outdoor enclaves, a real study overflowing
with books, funky-to-chic collectibles and 17
talented actors,...
Expand
a historic home in South Austin loaded with
secret passageways, upstairs kitchens,
outdoor enclaves, a real study overflowing
with books, funky-to-chic collectibles and 17
talented actors, performing in several rooms
at once to tell the story of the house—or
more importantly, its “occupants,” as their
relationships are challenged and shift over
time. you won’t find out the performance
location until you buy the tickets (which you
should, right away), and the home’s true-life
occupants, who are justifiably proud of its
restoration and vintage chic, will welcome
you. while awaiting the start of the plays,
you’ll mingle on the covered front porch
(complete with a swing) with some of the
actors, directors, writers and patrons—
without any idea which is which. it’s a
mystery that unfolds throughout the evening
as soon as you walk up the porch steps.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Be Amused"
Review
posted by:
Stephen
from Austin TX,
Sep 01, 2010
For those wishing a close experience between actor and audience The Vestage Group's production of Muses IV Memories of a House is just the ticket. Before I go in depth there are a few things one...
Expand
For those wishing a close experience between actor and audience The Vestage Group's production of Muses IV Memories of a House is just the ticket. Before I go in depth there are a few things one should know about coming to this production. First be prepared to be coming to a house and that its someone actual house. You will be moving around inside and out. Wear shoes that going up and down stairs can happen and being out in the grass for a brief walk. Bring a few dollars for inexpensive refreshments as there is no real intermission and you are outside some. Last but not least is make a reservation for seeing show. There are no walk ups as the show is designed to take groups in sizes of 10 or less and show them the 10 well played scenes.
Muses IV is a combination of 10 stories that take place on the property. The actors bring a wide range of talent and each story offers something to the audience. The actors have a great amount of concentration as the audience is within arms length.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Up-close, personal, and creative."
Review
posted by:
Jay Y.
from Austin, TX,
Aug 31, 2010
I had vaguely heard of the Vestige Group's Muses series, and decided to go last weekend. I am glad I did. It is probably the most unique form of theatre that I have personally witnessed. Basically, 3...
Expand
I had vaguely heard of the Vestige Group's Muses series, and decided to go last weekend. I am glad I did. It is probably the most unique form of theatre that I have personally witnessed. Basically, 3 groups of about 10 tour a private house in the South Lamar area, and actors perform scenes with a common thread of characters inhabiting the house. Several characters remain constant, such as Winston, his alcoholic wife, and his religious daughter. It is interesting to see different actors portray the same characters. If there is another group that performs scripted material in a non-stage setting, I am not aware of them. All of the actors did a good job, especially considering the fact that they had to maintain character with the audience just feet away from them, not to mention with cars roaring past and whatever noise the neighbors made. I heartily recommend Muses IV to Austin arts fans- you will find something unique here.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"A day in the life of..."
Review
posted by:
Angela Garner
from Austin, TX,
Aug 31, 2010
If you're looking for something a little more intimate than just breaking that third wall, Muses IV: Memories of a House immerses you into every scene. Traditionally, the Muse series takes the...
Expand
If you're looking for something a little more intimate than just breaking that third wall, Muses IV: Memories of a House immerses you into every scene. Traditionally, the Muse series takes the audience on an adventure through disjointed scenes and stories, but this time around there is a link between scenes. Each scene is a unique snapshot of one family, and the audience gets to act as a sort of fly on the wall, but sometimes more. The script holds strong and thought provoking material, and the acting is excellent. The intimate setting not only provides a close feel with those on stage, but also fellow audience members. Lines begin to blur on whether you are an audience member as your position only takes you closer to the action in every scene. Remember to dress appropriately for the inclusion of outdoor weather!
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Inventive Theater With A Fun, Dissembled Narrative"
Review
posted by:
Xaq Webb
from Austin, TX,
Aug 31, 2010
This was my first time seeing a show by the Vestige
Group and I was really impressed. "Muses" takes
small, limited audiences through a tour of a
beautiful South Austin home, while showing scenes...
Expand
This was my first time seeing a show by the Vestige
Group and I was really impressed. "Muses" takes
small, limited audiences through a tour of a
beautiful South Austin home, while showing scenes
in various areas, which span the 30-ish years of a
family's life and memories in the house. Some of
the best playwrights in Austin contributed to this
awesome show, with the most memorable scenes
coming from Trey Deason, who was nominated for
a B. Iden Payne Award for his work in last year's
"Muses". Many of the actors were fresh faces to me,
but gave sometimes-funny, sometimes-stirringly
powerful performances. The limited audience size
adds a wonderful air of exclusivity if you are a part
of it, but it also means you should act fast to
reserve your seat: This show has been selling out,
and with good reason! This show is definitely worth
seeing, especially if you enjoy seeing how versatile
theater can be.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Solid, Thoughtful Production"
Review
posted by:
Bethany Harbaugh
from Austin, TX,
Aug 30, 2010
Though this is the 4th year of "Muses," this was my first time attending the series. I found the concept interesting and the cast extremely capable of capturing these pivotal moments in time. In...
Expand
Though this is the 4th year of "Muses," this was my first time attending the series. I found the concept interesting and the cast extremely capable of capturing these pivotal moments in time. In particular, Kacy Todd and Jeff Gibbs brought execptional clarity and subtle nuance to their respective characters and scenes. I found the added "game" of piecing each character's story together as the night progressed to be a nice bonus (the timeline for the scenes is not solid). I was impressed with each actor's ability to stay "in the moment," even with audience members pratically in their laps or cars roaring past. The only downside I saw for the whole evening was that at times, you would be watching one scene, but could see actors get in place for another scene in the background. But, as a testmant to the ablities of the actors, I generally stayed completely focused on the scene in front of me.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"A Peek Behind Pocket Doors"
Review
posted by:
Vicki McKain
from Austin, TX,
Aug 28, 2010
I was intriqued by the creative idea of theater staged in various rooms and outside areas of a home. The beautiful, old house used provides a perfect setting for the ten scenes that reveal touching,...
Expand
I was intriqued by the creative idea of theater staged in various rooms and outside areas of a home. The beautiful, old house used provides a perfect setting for the ten scenes that reveal touching, funny, and sad events in the characters' lives. This is intimate theater. Small groups of audience members sit close, often very close to the actors, such as sitting around the dining room table. This production is cleverly written and exceptionally portrayed (involving 8 playwrights, 16 actors, 5 directors, and other company members). The stories and actors are engaging. Positive accolades are too numerous for the space. Wear comfortable, cool clothes. The evening began breezy for the preshow gathering and first memory in the front yard, but was quite warm for a few scenes in the backyard. However, that did not detract from the enjoyment of the evening. This is a unique and delightful theater experience.
Collapse
-
Event Name: Muses IV
"Moving through Memories in the Rooms of a House"
Review
posted by:
Pammyla Brooks
from Austin, Texas,
Aug 28, 2010
I have been curious about the Muses project where the audience moves from room to room watching scenes in a different house each year. This year, the writers were given the story of one family, and...
Expand
I have been curious about the Muses project where the audience moves from room to room watching scenes in a different house each year. This year, the writers were given the story of one family, and the writers wrote scenes that may have occurred in different rooms of the house. What a fascinating concept! We were treated to a spectacular house as a backdrop, with brilliant colors, eye-capturing art, fun furniture, and the best percussion instrument from Vietnam that was so much fun to play. I was fortunate to meet the owner of the house, who had a sparking presence. As you might guess, some of the 10 scenes are better than others, and all provide glimpses into the innermost workings of a family. Be warned that different actors play the same characters, and that the scenes are not time-ordered, as that threw me until the 4th scene. Also, bring bug spray because half are outside. Ok, I admit I’m hooked, and look forward to being a part of the annual lively Muses tradition.
Collapse
-
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