From Checkov to Wu-Tang

In a cutting-edge attempt to create a new and innovative type of performance art, the show “March of the Seagulls” was born. The performance interweaves dramatist Anton Chekhov’s play “The Seagull” with the story of a seagull king trying to create a new form of art to take over the world.
Directed by senior theatre major Chris Aldrich, “March of the Seagulls” incorporates dance, theater, film, live music and multimedia through movement-based theater.
“The whole idea started out as a joke. Then we actually started having a good time with it,” said Aldrich. “I wanted to create an art form that combined everything I love.”
Among the musical influences to the show are Pink Floyd, The Notorious B.I.G., Iron Maiden, Slayer and Wu-Tang Clan. In addition to Chekhov, some of the theater influences include playwrights Bertolt Brecht and Luigi Pirandello.
“I wrote [‘March of the Seagulls’], but it has become a collaborative effort among myself, the cast and crew,” said Aldrich. “I wanted a new thing that was different from anything that has been at Mason. It gave us a chance to really break out of the box.”
“March of the Seagulls” will be shown in TheaterSpace, located in the first floor of the Performing Arts Building, from May 4–6 at 8 p.m. Tickets are free; however, donations are appreciated.