The Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston (ICA) presents the Boston debut of news from nowhere, the theatre ensemble that produces the work of Tim Crouch, one of the most distinctive voices in British theatre today. Two different works will be presented, Nov. 13—15, 2009. Tickets can be purchased at www.icaboston.org or by calling (617) 478-3103.


ENGLAND
Performed by Tim Crouch and Hannah Ringham
Friday, Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 14—15, 2 p.m.

Conceived to be staged in contemporary art galleries, Tim Crouch’s third play, ENGLAND, features Crouch and Hannah Ringham playing one character—a cheerful narrator serving as a somewhat naïve tour guide who tells a tale that reveals some dark surprises. As the actor(s) address the audience — as guides within an exhibition — the narrative unfolds in reference to the art around them. The first half of the play will take place in one of the ICA’s galleries.

ENGLAND is the story of one thing placed inside another: a heart inside another person’s body, a culture inside another country’s culture, theater inside a gallery, a character inside an actor, a play inside its audience. The play contains searing observations about how people choose to value things most dear to them, exposing the stark contrasts between the boundless pursuit of health and happiness and the hidden cost of that pursuit.

ENGLAND continues Crouch’s fascination with the nature of the theatrical experience; the communication of an idea from performer to audience – and back again. ENGLAND is performed in thin air, within space, between people. At the same time, it is thoroughly entertaining, charming audiences as it gets to the very heart of matters of universal scope.

It is supported by a soundtrack by award-winning sound designer Dan Jones. The two actors are Tim Crouch and Hannah Ringham, a founder member of the Shunt Collective in London. ENGLAND is directed by Karl James and the artist a smith.

“A rich drama created with rigorous, poetic economy…belongs to that wonderful genre of thoughtful plays that could be discussed for hours without exhausting ideas.” – New York Times

“…like all Crouch’s shows, it burns with the desire to provoke as it explores not just the nature of theatre but the way we live now, in a world where commerce knows no borders.” — The Guardian

“Tim Crouch may not be a household name but he’s a peach of a theatre-maker: conceptual without being obscure; experimental without losing the plot, or indeed faith in the power of words to move you.” — Time Out

Tickets: $20 general admission; $15 members, students, and seniors (very limited seating). Note: the audience will be standing for half the piece.