Running through July 13, the new theatrical fantasy, press notes state, conjures "ecstatic desires, lavish nightmares and bizarre premonitions in a bejeweled cabinet of curiosities that could only be found in one of downtown's last enclaves for bohemian New York style."
Twist also directs the production that features costume concepts by Thierry Mugler, costume execution by Chris March, musical arrangements by Elliot Douglass and Jean-Francois Houle, musical production by Jean-Francois Houle, sound design by Greg Duffin, lighting design by Ayumu "poe" Saegusa and video design by Daniel Brodie. Alex Gifford has penned original songs ("Lately" and "The Jungle of Eden").
Video previews of the work depict Arias uncannily channeling late songstress Billie Holliday backed by a "big band" comprised of puppet musicians.
Twist also serves as puppet designer for the Shakespeare in the Park staging of Hamlet, currently playing the Delacorte Theater.
Arias with a Twist was developed through HERE Arts Center's Dream Music Puppetry Program, which is now celebrating its tenth year nurturing new puppetry techniques and incorporating new opportunities for puppetry artists through interdisciplinary collaborations. Arias with a Twist will be seen 9 PM Wednesdays-Saturdays, with additional midnight performances on Fridays and Saturdays. Sunday performances are at 8 PM.
Tickets are available by calling (212) 352-3101 or by visiting www.here.org. HERE Arts Center is located at 145 Sixth Avenue in Manhattan.
For further information visit www.here.org.