In this inventive comedy about a 1869 expedition down the Colorado River, I played Hawkins: the team’s chef, comedic relief, and heartthrob. Men on Boats is a true ensemble piece brought to life with the movement guidance of Kathryn Cesarz and Jesse March, who taught us new skills in pantomime and Suzuki. We traversed treacherous waters on imaginary boats, seeing invisible dangers and glories along the way (trust me, they were terrifying and beautiful).
This is a play (mostly) based on a real group of men who went on a real journey down the Colorado River. However, the play is meant to be played entirely with non-men. This particular group of non-men made this expedition one to remember for me! Rehearsing for this show in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, which lies on one bank of the St. Croix river that divides Wisonsin from Minnesota, was a picture perfect summer activity.
Photos by Isaac Bont
Directed by Kathryn Cesarz and Jesse March
Lighting Design by Isaac Bont
Set Design by Traci Ledford
Costume Design by Emma Kravig
Starring Bailey Mattner, Beth Siegling, Brecken Styles, Jean Shore, Lindsey Fry, Mary Margaret Hughes, Patricia Leon de la Barra, Quinnie Wolfe, and Tatiana Robledo.