Magical Zoom Virtual Premiere of Helder Guimarães in THE PRESENT
Jill Weinlein - Chief Los Angeles Theatre Critic
Until live theatre opens its doors, theaters across the world are getting creative to enrich and entertain loyal and new audiences.
The Geffen Playhouse in Westwood, CA offered ticket opportunities to the world premiere of The Present, written and performed by Helder Guimarães and Directed by Frank Marshall. Previews begin May 7 and the production runs through June 7, 2020.
The initial run sold out in less than one hour! Today, April 30, GEFFEN PLAYHOUSE announced a four-week extension for “THE PRESENT” with shows beginning JUNE 9 through JULY 5
The Present marks the first full-length production to emerge from Geffen Playhouse’s new Geffen Stayhouse initiative.
“We are thrilled by the overwhelming response to The Present. It’s a joy to see the audience as hungry for new content as we are to create it. Helder Guimarães is telling a story that feels absolutely right for the uncertain times in which we find ourselves,” said Geffen Playhouse Artistic Director Matt Shakman. “With thanks to Helder’s vision and the amazing Geffen team, it’s my pleasure to announce this extension for an additional four weeks of performances. We look forward to including audiences from all over the country to join in this intimate and innovative theatrical event. “
The Present is inspired by Helder Guimarães' own life experience with quarantine during childhood. Using his signature mind-bending illusions, Guimarães recalls the funny, moving, and ultimately illuminating lessons he learned when he least expected them, and shares this story with Zoom audiences at a time when we need it most.
This new production is open to anyone living in the United States, and will take place virtually via Zoom with a maximum of 25 households per show. All participants will be seen on screen at some time during the show, so make sure you are “camera ready.”
The Present offers a unique twist providing both a virtual and physical experience, as magic will also take place in your own hands, from the comfort of your own home.
Since tickets are limited, here is how to purchase a ticket BUY TICKETS.
Here is how it works:
1) Purchase a ticket online through this website at least 7 days in advance.
2) A mystery package will be mailed to you.
3) DO NOT OPEN this package until instructed during the show.
4) Follow the instructions and log-in to the Zoom virtual theater at the date and time of your performance.
5) Enjoy the show.
PRICING: Preview tickets are $60 and regular tickets start at $75. These prices are per household and all-inclusive. You do not need to purchase additional tickets for family members for the show as long as everyone is sitting around the same computer.
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MYSTERY PACKAGE: Your mystery package will be mailed by United States Priority Mail and will arrive at least 48 hours before your show. The Zoom virtual theater will open 15 minutes before you scheduled showtime, so participants can test their microphone, speaker and connectivity.