Opening night in the Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater is scheduled for May 11.
In & Of Itself, which features original music by DEVO founding member and frontman Mark Mothersbaugh, is constructed as a “metaphoric labyrinth, filled with allegorical illusions and centered around a single paradoxical truth,” according to press notes.
As an actor, Oz voiced the characters of Miss Piggy on The Muppet Show; Bert and Grover on Sesame Street; and Yoda in the Star Wars films.
“Developing this show has been a transformative experience,” said DelGaudio in a statement. “What began as a deeply personal endeavor has evolved into this remarkable collaboration. I’m looking forward to sharing what we’ve made.”
“I sensed in Derek a pure intent,” added Oz. “I loved that he was attempting to do something extraordinary and unexpected. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever been a part of. There’s an authenticity to Derek that is rare and integral to his work. In great part, I’m there to keep him honest. Honest to himself. This show has been inside him for a long time and it’s full of beautiful, complex ideas. I wanted to help Derek focus those ideas, shape them and bring them to life on the stage.”
DelGaudio’s 2012 record-breaking Nothing to Hide enjoyed a 144-performance run, the highest daily and weekly box-office sales for the Geffen’s intimate venue and grossed more than $1 million in revenue before transferring to New York City.
Returning producer Glenn Kaino noted, “Derek operates in a space between conventional modes of creativity. When I met him, I immediately recognized that he was an artist trapped in a magician’s history and this show is a reflection of his practice.”
Ticket prices are $100-$150 and are available in-person at the Geffen Playhouse box office, via phone at (310) 208-5454 or online at Geffenplayhouse.com.
