Seattle's Empty Space Theatre and acclaimed physical-based theatre troupe, UMO will premiere an original family musical fantasy titled, Expressions of the Spirit: Tales of the Brothers Grimm, playing at The Empty Space Theatre with previews Jan. 15-19, for a Jan. 20-Feb. 13 run. Using the classic folk tales of the Brothers Grimm as a touchstone, Expressions of the Spirit focuses on the tales of trickery, heroic tasks and fabulous journeys that have entertained generations of children and adults alike. UMO generated the piece, like their other works, utilizing improvisation based on written text. Masks and live musical accompaniment will color the piece.

Founded in 1987, UMO is a Northwestern-based company whose physical storytelling roots trace back to Grotowski's groundbreaking work in the 1960s. The group has toured extensively in the United States and Europe, most recently appearing at Romania's Sibiu International Theatre Festival. Productions include: Instinction, El Dorado, Insatiable Cabaret, Caravan of Dreams, and Body Inheritance.

The show is directed by Empty Space regular, writer/director Eddie Levi Lee, and features set and costume design by Regan Haines and lights by Timothy Wratten.

For tickets or more information on Expressions of the Spirit at The Empty Space Theatre, call (206) 547-7500.

-- By Sean McGrath