PB&J Theatre Factory Becomes Gromalot Theatre Factory

PB&J Theatre Factory, which debuted at Orlando Fringe in 2007, is changing its name. While PB&J has always produced shows intended for all audiences, it has never been the intention to be a theatre company that produces shows strictly for young audiences. As the company makes efforts to take their shows outside of Orlando, it is clear that the popular assumption is that "PB&J" implies shows geared strictly towards elementary age audiences. PB&J wants to assure their beloved fans here at home in Orlando that though the name is changing, the heart of the company and the spirit of the shows will remain the same.

In examining name possibilities, the company stepped back and examined the roots of their work, which relies on physical story telling, with the absence of spoken dialogue.

PB&J has roots deep within the world of Commedia dell'Arte, an exaggerated style of theatre from 16th century Italy and France. Like Commedia, PB&J has always relied on the use of stock characters, exaggerated gesture, and the use of their physical "mask" to show emotion. Another tool that sprouted from Commedia is gromalot, a nonsensical babble speak that carried the truthful emotional intention of a character. Gromalot was developed by Commedia performers to overcome language barriers. Gromalot is a technique PB&J has always used. Vocal sounds and grunts and even an occasional word always pop up in our shows to help tell the story, despite the fact that complete sentences and traditional dialogue are never used.

Gromalot is the word that the company feels speaks not only to the roots of the work in their productions, but also maintains the whimsy and playfulness that will always remain at the heart of their work. PB&J Theatre Factory is now Gromalot Theatre Factory.

In addition to the new face of the company, Gromalot Theatre Factory is excited to announce a partnership with Central Florida Community Arts for the 2016/17 season. Working with CFC Arts, which strives to inspire local artists in Orlando, Gromalot Theatre Factory will remount three of their all original favorites. Titles and dates are forthcoming, but thanks to CFC Arts, Gromalot Theatre Factory finally has an opportunity to do a season of shows.

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