Hitting its five-year anniversary, the Arsht Center is clearly exceeding expectations. Not only is it not in the red, it's thriving with packed houses and rigorous programming. But still, some criticize that the programming, which includes shows like Wicked and The Adams Family, is too mainstream. What's more, for the average Miamian (keep in mind median income here clocks in at about $33K), the $80-plus ticket prices are too damn high.
But then there's the Arsht Center's annual Miami Made program in which experimental, homegrown productions are commissioned and presented in their Carnival Studio Theater. The weekend showcase is even free -- we just wish it happened more than once a year. And heads up, South Florida artists: The Arsht Center is now accepting proposals for their 2012 Miami Made Weekend.
With a deadline of November 14, the commissioning program is looking for any genre of performing arts -- especially mixed
media productions and those that incorporate new technology. The
selected works will be presented as works-in-progress, meaning you can
still present a "world premiere" in the future.
In recent years, Miami Made has taken a dark turn with works centering
on themes of violence, sexuality, and death. In The Body is Present,
choreographer Ana Mendez explored the unusual death of artist and Miami
legend Ana Mendieta. At one point, feathers filled the air in the
Carnival Studio Theater, referencing Mendieta's Santeria-inspired
performance art.
In Juraj Kojs's Neraissance, a bride wrapped in Christmas
lights slowly crept by on kid's bike before standing to shed her wedding
gown. In lighter fare, Jillian Mayer married her pet Chihuahua in Ms Mrs, and
Phallus Winter's Phallusy mocked notions of sexual identity.
And if you have a great idea but are unsure about how to submit a
proposal, the Arsht Center is hosting writing workshops on October 15
and 16, and a presentation workshop on November 19 and 20. Get all the submission details over at arshtcenter.org/miamimade.
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