The life of Francis of Assisi has been told many times. Born to a rich merchant father in the 13th century, he had a wild youth as a soldier and playboy. In prison he changed. He walked with animals and friends proclaiming a new way of life. Many believed and followed him. Others tried to contain or corrupt him. He walked to Egypt to bring peace during the Crusades. In the spirit of Rumi, King David and Hildegard of Bingen he was a visionary who wrote one of the great love poems to the earth.
The iconoclastic creator of the form-changing dance theatre works The Garden of Earthly Delights and Vienna: Lusthaus returns with this new full-length work. Conceived and directed by Martha Clarke, with text by poet Fanny Howe, God’s Fool interprets the ancient story of St. Francis of Assisi: a man of privilege who chose community over self and lived among the poor, lepers, and others disenfranchised by society. An a cappella score, derived from music spanning a period of 800 years, is incorporated into an impressionistic narrative. St. Francis of Assisi’s humility and profound connection to nature, animals, and simplicity, is relevant in the chaotic time we are experiencing. With a cast featuring Patrick Andrews, Ingrid Kapteyn, Luca Fontaine, James A. Pierce III, Rico LeBron, John Kelly, George de la Peña, and Evan Copeland.
Covid Safety Precautions:
La MaMa requires proof of Covid-19 vaccination and photo ID for admittance to the theater. Masks must be worn inside at all times.
