Could you capture your life's journey in the length of a sonnet? Somewhere between life and the beyond, 28 souls try to comprehend the impact and meaning of their existence.
Sonnets for an Old Century examines what it means to be alive at this particular time and place and what traces each of us will leave behind. In a series of exquisitely written monologues, using dance and live music, Sonnets captures the subtle, often overlooked treasures of everyday life.
An anthology-styled play by José Rivera, Sonnets for an Old Century explores the hopes, fears and epiphanies of a patchwork of souls from across the United States. Equal parts confession, celebration and elegy, this work, consisting of 28 monologues, investigates what it means to be alive and, perhaps, what dreams come after.
Directed by Corey Allen.
Feature in The Daily Texan by Sage Dunlap, October 5, 2021
Along with dynamic visual design aspects, SONNETS FOR AN OLD CENTURY boasts a detailed soundscape created by Butler School of Music faculty member Sam Lipman. As sound designer and composer, Lipman balanced external and internal elements when composing, embracing the "liminal" space that is reflected in the play.
Director Corey Allen is an assistant professor in the acting program at The University of Texas at Austin Department of Theatre and Dance. As an actor, he has appeared on stage and screen. Recent TV credits include Mindhunter, Madame Secretary, Bull and Happy! Film work includes Proximity, Lost in the City and Root for the Villain. Regionally, he has appeared at the Shakespeare Theater of D.C., Pioneer Theater Company, Orlando Shakespeare Theater, Huntington Theatre Company and the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, as well as the Utah, North Carolina and Great River Shakespeare Festivals. He is a creative partner with Flux Theatre Ensemble (New York City) and his voice-over work can be found on audiobooks, documentaries and various sound recordings. Allen holds an M.F.A. in Acting from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. core-allen.com
