In a search for a more democratic, accessible, and environmentally sustainable model of making and experiencing theater, I propose the You-Cube, a tiny temporary performance space outside, which welcomes anyone to create a tiny show for audience peeking through cracks in the walls. The desire to be seen and to witness is fulfilled in this new intimate setting. By reducing the scale of a full-length show into a more sustainable envelope, the You-Cube not only invites experienced performers but also offers access to participants who don’t typically engage with traditional theater but have a need for witnessed performance in their own context. I expect an outpouring of multi-disciplinary and experimental expression from the UMass Amherst community on whose campus this project will first appear and the broader Five College community of the Connecticut River Pioneer Valley.
WHEN: The You-Cube is up for 2 weeks during early Fall and open for use for a few hours a day, while being monitored by a Theater Department representative.
LOGISTICS: Users sign out the space for 15-30 min intervals on a centralized sign-up sheet.
SPECIFICS: Inside, users will find a basic lighting setup to customize a lighting look of choice, as well as have the ability of amplify a sound recording from their phone. An audio/video setup inside of the You-Cube will livestream to a University website, similar to the falcon cam. (This can be turned off for special projects.)