The stage is set and I find myself marveling as director, Bryce Butler, pours a circle of grain around what is easily one the coolest set pieces I've ever seen. The aerial apparatus, made by sculptor Tim Scofield, is a marvel, waiting patiently for its playmates.

For That Which Returns is a collaboration between Arachne Aerial Arts and In-Flight Theater. A retelling of the story of Demeter and Persephone, with each storyteller's personal experiences added; that and, some damn impressive aerial prowess. Andrea Burkholder, Sharon Witting, and Mara Neimanis are a wonder to watch in this touching, funny, and powerful exploration of mothers and daughters.

As I listen to the original script, written by Mara, and watch the precision of this aerial work (each bicep more impressive than that last) I am delighted to be a part of this world. The creativity, commitment, and courage of artists like this ensemble is what good theater is all about. Coming at old stories from a completely different perspective...(the air, in this case) but also infusing it with YOU. The piece is rich with personal experience and it shows in the performances.

The sculpture, illuminated with some gorgeous lighting design by Daniel Burkholder, points North, South, East, and West. The arrow spins above, constantly changing, and often casting the shadow of a spinning clock on the stage floor...damn, that's cool. The ladies climb over every inch of metal. Down and back up again, moving constantly between the two worlds and through the passage of time...I'm sweating just watching, but they look cool as cucumbers.

Whenever I watch this work, there always seems to come a time where I realize, "holy shit, they could really get hurt up there!" No harnesses, no lines. This is kinesthetic awareness on steroids. Mara, Andrea, and Sharon hold onto the arrow, literally running and jumping from point to point. I sit up a little straighter, the least I could do is have some good posture down here.

I am proud to call Mara my friend as I watch her on stage. She moves me to tears while she speaking so openly about her mother. I find myself instantly thinking of my own mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and the daughter to come next. The piece is grandiose like that, and yet so sweet and simple when you least expect it. A bit like life, eh? Well done.

~ Kolleen

See the show at Baltimore Theatre Project starting Nov 1st:  http://www.theatreproject.org/Shows/ForThatWhichReturns/

Arachne Aerial Arts:  http://www.arachneair.com/

In-Flight Theater:  http://www.in-flighttheater.com/