Don’t let the title cause your fingers to scratch your head, says actor Erica Sarzin-Borrillo. Curious Theatre’s “Circle Mirror Transformation,” by Annie Baker, is not a sci-fi freakout. It’s a sweet comedy about five misfits taking an adult creative drama class in a small New England town.
“There is no reason to be intimidated by this play,” said Sarzin-Borrillo. “It’s the second most-produced play in America right now, and for good reason. It’s charming, warm, funny and poignant . . . and most important, it is deeply human and therefore quite accessible.”
Sarzin-Borrillo, a graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, has been performing on local stages for nearly two decades. Just not Curious, which has become known in its 13 years for bringing audiences a wide variety of proven, local actors, rather than relying on the same closed circle of company members. Others in this incoming class of Curious newcomers include big shots Mark Rubald, Bob Buckley and Barbra Andrews.
Denver Post: What does that commitment to the local talent pool say about Curious?
Erica Sarzin-Borrillo: Generally, companies work within a closed circle for the simple reason that they’ve developed a common language and way of operating. It’s kind of daring to step outside a framework that has worked well. However, inherent in its vision, as the name implies, Curious is a company with a seeking spirit and curiosity for that which is new, whether it be new material or new personnel. I think they have a willingness to take risks and that suggests that all involved truly want growth. It’s quite impressive.
Denver Post: OK, so does it give too much away to ask what the odd title means?
Sarzin-Borrillo: The title is taken directly from an acting exercise developed in the 1970s. “Circle Mirror Transformation” is one of many exercises the students take part in during the play, and it works as a metaphor of sorts. Exercises like these were designed to produce a sense of freedom through moving beyond the social persona so full of fear and defense. Literally, they are designed to bring one back to the kind of joy and innocence we knew as children.
Denver Post: We called them “theater games.” What’s the silliest one you’ve ever taken part in?
Sarzin-Borrillo: The silliest was at a rehearsal for a show that just wasn’t working: We sang the entire show, with wildly over-the-top operatic voices. Hysterical!
Denver Post: I’m fascinated by what the people who take classes like these are really looking for. Do they have something in common?
Sarzin-Borrillo: I think non-theater folks who take these classes do so for a variety of reasons, but there’s a general understanding that creativity can be life-enlightening. These folks want to expand their understanding of life and make meaningful connections with others. But perhaps most important, they’re trying to find a way to ignite their vital spirit.
John Moore: 303-954-1056 or jmoore@denverpost.com
“Circle Mirror Transformation”
Comedy. Presented by Curious Theatre, 1080 Acoma St. Written by Annie Baker. Directed by Christopher Leo. Through Feb. 26. 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. $18-$42. 303-623-0524 or
Video podcast: Country Dinner Playhouse demolition
We take you to the scene at the first day of the demolition of the Country Dinner Playhouse, which began on Tuesday, Jan. 18. Video by John Moore, The Denver Post.
This weekend’s other theater openings
“The 39 Steps” In this quirky British sendup of Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 spy thriller, four actors play more than 50 roles, retooling the classic thriller into a hilarious comedy that still manages to be faithful to the movie. Through Feb. 20. Lake Dillon Theatre, 176 Lake Dillon Drive, 970-513-9386 or
“Boeing Boeing” In this popular French farce set in the 1960s, Bernard is a Parisian architect with three stewardess fiancees, each convinced she’s the only one. It all works perfectly, until an old school friend arrives. By Marc Camoletti. Through Feb. 13. Presented by TheatreWorksat the Bon Vivant Theater, 3955 Cragwood Drive, Colorado Springs, 719-255-3232 or
“Bye, Bye Birdie” This musical satire of 1958 American middle-class society was inspired by the phenomenon of Elvis Presley’s induction into the Army. In it, Elvis knockoff Conrad Birdie comes to Sweet Apple, Ohio, to kiss a random girl goodbye before reporting to duty. Songs include “Kids” and “Got a Lot of Living.” Through March 20. Candlelight Dinner Playhouse, 4747 Market Place Drive, Johnstown, 970-744-3747, 1-877-240-4242 or
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“Circle Mirror Transformation” Touching story of a community theater drama class in New England that finds a misplaced entourage of outsiders in the hands of their teacher, Marty. As they experiment with theater games and group exercises, hearts are quietly torn apart and tiny wars of epic proportions are waged and won. A tender human fragility underscores this witty story of transformation, both subtle and monumental, in an unsuspecting group of strangers. By Annie Baker. Directed by Christopher Leo. Through Feb. 26. 1080 Acoma St., 303-623-0524 or and here’s –>
“Extremities” In the aftermath of an attempted rape, a woman turns the tables on her attacker. This is the debut staging by the Edge, previously known as the E-Project. Through Feb. 20. 9797 W. Colfax Ave., Lakewood, 303-232-0363 or
“Map of Heaven” In this world premiere drama by the Denver Center Theatre Company, Lena’s painting career is on the rise. Her maps of places real and imaginary are poised to take New York by storm. But when her radiologist husband makes a mistake, Lena’s life is upended. Michele Lowe’s contemporary relationship story explores the consequences of a single lapse in ethical judgment. Through Feb. 26. Ricketson Theatre, Denver Performing Arts Complex, 14th and Curtis streets, 303-893-4100 or and here’s
Complete theater listings
Go to our complete list of in Colorado, including summaries, run dates, addresses, phones and links to every company’s home page. Or check out our listings or
The Running Lines blog
Catch up on John Moore’s roundup of theater news and dialogue.
Video podcast: Afterthought Theatre at Kent Denver School
In preparation for Martin Luther King Day, Afterthought Theatre came to the Kent Denver School to present “The Meeting,” which imagines a meeting between Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Video by John Moore, The Denver Post.
