ART/WNY Presents THE RAIN DOGS PROJECT In New Location

Tom Waits has been painting an Americana landscape with his music over the past three decades. Much of his lyrics weave fictional individuals through nonfictional settings in the same "dirty reality" style American short-story writer Raymond Carver and poet Charles Bukowski displayed in their works. The characters, the lives they lead, the dialogs, the monologs all within Waits vast encyclopedia of songs lend themselves to a theatrical setting where all are could be brought to life.

American Repertory Theater of WNY will conclude the 2017-18 season with the presentation of THE RAIN DOGS PROJECT. This production utilizes the talents of regional playwrights in a forum that combines their one-act works with the music of this legendary cabaret/carnival barker. Basing their works on Waits' "dirty reality" scenery, these pieces are coordinated with music composed from his vast encyclopedia. This joint collaboration between live music excerpts and Waits lyrics brought to life creates a La Ronde "feel" as characters intercept one another along the Project's journey. Featured playwrights include John F Kennedy's FUNERAL WATER, Matthew LaChiusa's IT'S COLD AND THERE'S NO MUSIC/LUCE, Ross McFarlane's CLOSING TIME, James Marzo's JERSEY GIRL, and Bella Poynton's WHAT'S HE BUILDING.

Running from May 10th to May 26th, Thurs-Sat 8 pm showtimes, THE RAIN DOGS PROJECT features musical direction by Jack Kruezer and Phoebe Herreid. The production is jointly directed by Nick Lama & Catherine Burkhart and featuring choreography by Carly Luksch. THE RAIN DOG PROJECT will feature the ART/WNY acting debut of John Profeta; John Kreuzer; Carly Luksch, with alumni Gary Andrews-Stieglizt; (JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR) Courtney Maj (JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR) and Candice Kogut (JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, THE UNDERPANTS, A BEHANDING IN SPOKANE, HELLO AGAIN).

THE RAIN DOGS PROJECT will be held at a new performance space location. Jim Bush Studios at 44 17 West Street, Buffalo NY 14213 (in Buffalo historical West Side). Tickets are $25 for special "bar" seating, $20 General; $15 Industry; $10 Student & Veterans

To order tickets online visit https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3399845 or visit www.artofwny.org
Showdates May 10th, 11th, 12th May 17th, 18th, 19th May 24th, 25th, 26th Showtime 8 pm