How Master Arts Defines Reader’s Theater
Master Arts Theatre’s 40th season includes two productions labeled as Reader’s Theater. I want to assure you, both shows will be “Don’t miss,” shows. Master Arts’ interpretation of Reader’s Theater goes beyond actors simply sitting and reading aloud. Let’s examine the two upcoming productions:
Things We Couldn’t Say: This production is explicitly labeled a Reader’s Theater due to the author’s desire to make Diet Eman’s powerful story accessible to a wide range of groups.
As we have in the past, Actors will perform the story fully memorized and costumed. The minimal set design is dictated by the multiple scenes within the play, allowing the emphasis to remain on the compelling narrative and the actors’ portrayal.
Director Cathy Van Lopik, who was involved in a previous production of “Things”, envisions actors moble and interacting, rather than delivering lines from stools with fixed gazes. The focus will remain on the actors’ emotional storytelling, guiding the audience through the incredible journey of a courageous young woman amidst Nazi oppression.
The Pilgrim’s Progress: This production, scheduled for October, is the incredible story written by John Bunyan. Christian, burdened by failure and betrayal is determined to flee the city of Destruction and in search of a better place.
Pilgrim’s Progress will be presented without memorization. This choice stems from a desire to offer more opportunities for the talented actors in the Grand Rapids area who may not be able to commit to the extensive rehearsal and performance schedule of a traditional production. By embracing the Reader’s Theater format, Master Arts can involve a wider pool of actors. The intention is that within a month of rehearsals, the actors will become so familiar with the script that they will only occasionally glance at it, maintaining a strong connection with the audience.
This production will also incorporate a “folly artist”, one who will create live sound effects, and a narrator who will provide crucial details to immerse the audience in the unfolding story within their own imaginations. With only one weekend of performances, this format allows for a more flexible commitment for the actors involved.
By the way, Allison Brito, the director, says “expect costumes, live music, and movement not normally associated with Readers Theater.”
Master Arts emphasizes that our “Reader’s Theater” is not about static “talking heads.” We aim to create an engaging and dynamic experience for the audience. For The Pilgrim’s Progress, tickets will go on sale on September 23 for performances from October 23-25, 2025.
Tickets for Things We Couldn’t Say, running from May 29 to June 6, 2026, will be available starting in 2026, around the end of April.
Master Arts invites audiences to join them for these unique theatrical experiences, promising engaging storytelling and a departure from the conventional image of Reader’s Theater.