THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Comes Home for the Holidays Via PlayMakers Laboratory December 10 – 19, 2021 at the Neo-Futurist Theater

ChiIL Mama's ChiIL Picks List 

PlayMakers Laboratory Welcomes Back Live Audiences with

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: 

Comes Home for the Holidays

Directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd

December 10 – 19, 2021 at the Neo-Futurist Theater

 

An Original Sketch Show Written by Kids, 

Performed by Grownups and Enjoyed by Humans

Here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows, PlayMakers Laboratory and That’s Weird, Grandma have been favorites of ours for years. They're casual, crowd pleasing, wacky, and fun for all ages. 

PlayMakers Laboratory is pleased to welcome back live audiences this winter with That’s Weird, Grandma: Comes Home for the Holidays, directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd, playing December 10 – 19, 2021 at the Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago. Tickets go on sale Monday, November 1 at www.playmakerslab.org or by calling (773) 506-7140. The press opening is Saturday, December 11 at 7:30 pm. 

Please note: proof of vaccination is required or a negative COVID test for children under 12. Masking is required by all patrons.

Enjoy a line-up of holiday-themed sketches and songs performed by PlayMakers Laboratory Company Members Elijah Cox, Nick Crothers,Linsey Falls, Taylor Galloway and Bhak Yongwoo.

Now in its 20th year, That’s Weird, Grandma features adaptations of stories written during PlayMakers Laboratory’s creative writing residencies in Chicago elementary schools. PML’s ensemble of professional actors, comedians and musicians bring the young authors’ stories to life as raucous sketches, songs and movement pieces, performing first for students in their schools and then for the public. These stories – from hilarious dialogues between unlikely characters to poignant pleas for social change – resonate with adults while celebrating the imaginations of young people. Every week brings a new line-up of stories, and PML invites audiences to vote on their favorites at each performance. 

Performance Schedule:

Friday, December 10 at 7:30 pm (preview)

Saturday, December 11 at 7:30 pm (press opening)

Sunday, December 12 at 3 pm

Friday, December 17 at 7:30 pm

Saturday, December 18 at 7:30 pm

Sunday, December 19 at 3 pm

Tickets: Adults: $22.50 in advance, $25 walk-ups; Children 12 and under $12.50; Seniors/Students/Teachers w/I.D. $15; Teen Arts Pass (TAP) members: $5 with ID. Tickets on sale now at www.playmakerslab.org or by calling (773) 506-7140.

PlayMakers Laboratory will also continue to stream That’s Weird, Grandma on Patreon with a new show available at the beginning of each month. For information and subscriptions, visit www.playmakerslab.org. 

That’s Weird, Grandma: Comes Home for the Holidays!

DIGITAL PROGRAM

WRITTEN BY CHICAGO PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS,

ADAPTED FOR THE STAGE BY PLAYMAKERS LABORATORY TEACHING ARTISTS

Directed By: 

Brandon Cloyd

Stage Manager: 

Cedar Larson

The Cast: 

Jen Allman, Elijah Cox, Nick Crothers, Linsey Falls, 

Taylor Galloway and Bhak Yongwoo

The Stories:

THE TIME I ATE A CHRISTMAS BALL

THE FAIRY THAT EATS TEETH

SUBWAY KIDS

THE TALL MAN

JERRY LIKE TO WORK 

DEAR HIDOLYA

ALIENS ON THE MOON

FIGHTING DRAGONS

THE SORD

SNOWFLAKE

I AM A TEDDY BEAR/I AM A CHILD

UNTITLED (OMG I FOUND MY SISTERS FRIEND)

ALIEN SANTA

THE HANDITAZER MONSTER

I BELIEVE QUE TODOS LOS DIAS CAE NIEVE

THE TURKEY THAT ESCAPED THE PLATES

SANTA AND THE MUSCLE-BOUND

1 ROOM & I WANT MY HOUSE

Production Design:

Opening & Closing Song: 

Gwen Tulin

Choreography by:

Amy Carlson

Stage Design:

Kassi Bleifuss & Sarah Goeden

Music Composed by: 

Elijah Cox, Bhak Yongwoo, Jonathan Mastro & Curtis Williams

Digital Adaptations

Mara Dale, Noah Appelbaum, Maeli Goren, Gaby Hirsch, Jon Schneidman, Kaitlyn Andrews, Brenda Arellano, Jen Allman, Ashley Bland & Cedar Larson

Also, Check us out on Social Media by following our: Youtube, Patreon, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram.

We are grateful for the support of the following foundations & entities:

Crown Family Philanthropies, Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, Illinois Arts Council Agency, Illinois Humanities Foundation, Maurice R. and Meta G. Gross Foundation, Mardi Gras Fund, Polk Bros. Foundation, The Saints Foundation, Siragusa Family Foundation, Paul M. Angell Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts

About the Director

Brandon Cloyd joined PlayMakers Laboratory in 2007 and has been deeply involved in many facets of the company ever since. Prior to joining PML, Brandon graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and a minor in Business Institutions. Within PML, Brandon has served as an actor, teaching artist, lead teacher, a member of Teacher Corps, as well as directing shows for schools and public performances of That's Weird, Grandma. Before becoming the company’s Artistic Director in September 2017, Brandon served as PML After-School Program Coordinator at Loyola Park from 2014-2016 and Program Director from 2016-2017. Outside of PML, he worked as the Associate Director of Camp Echo, where he has spent 13 summers managing campers and staff at a co-ed sleep away camp in Upstate New York. Brandon has worked with other theatre companies including Urban Theatre Company, American Theater Company, Filament Theatre, InGen Productions, ACLE's Teatrino in Italy and Purple Crayon Players at Northwestern University. Brandon recently joined the Board of Directors for the League of Chicago Theatres.

About PlayMakers Laboratory

Since PlayMakers Laboratory’s inception in 1997 as Barrel of Monkeys, its teaching artists have served more than 60 Chicago Public Schools. Over 15,000 elementary school students have participated in the PlayMakers programs, which aim to build students' writing skills, improve self-esteem, and instill confidence in their ideas and abilities.

PlayMakers Laboratory is sponsored in part by Wintrust Financial, Allscripts, Inc., Ernst and Young and Punchkick Interactive. It receives generous support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency; the National Endowment for the Arts; a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events; the Chicago Community Trust; Crown Family Philanthropies; Alphawood Foundation of Chicago; the Maurice R. and Meta G. Gross Foundation; Polk Bros Foundation; the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation; the Robert and Isabelle Bass Foundation, Inc.; The Saints; The Topfer Family Foundation, and many other generous individuals and foundations. 

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Goes Trick or Treating Now Playing Through November 3, 2019 at the Neo-Futurist Theater

Barrel of Monkeys Presents

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: 

Goes Trick or Treating

Directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd

October 6 – November 3, 2019 at the Neo-Futurist Theater

 

Barrel of Monkeys company members perform THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA. 

All Photos by Evan Hanover.

An Original Sketch Show that is Written by Kids, 

Performed by Grownups, and Enjoyed by Humans

BOM is a long time fav of ours here at ChiIL Mama. Their sketches are a hoot and a half, full of the unbridled creativity of kids, brought to the stage unedited, and honed into a full on production by adult actors.

Barrel of Monkeys is pleased to launch its 2019-20 season with a spooky twist: THAT’S WEIRD GRANDMA: Goes Trick or Treating, directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd, playing Sundays at 3 pm from October 6 – November 3, 2019 at the Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago. Tickets are currently available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org or by calling (773) 506-7140. 

Stories about ghosts, haunted orphanages and spooky horrors imagined by Chicago elementary school students will be sure to get audiences in the Halloween mood!

The cast includes Barrel of Monkeys Company Members Elisa Carlson, Lindsey Dorcus, Linsey Falls, Barry Irving, Nic Park, Bradford Stevens, Rawson Vint and Rachel Wilson.

Now in its 18th year, THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA features adaptations of stories written during Barrel of Monkeys’ creative writing residencies in Chicago elementary schools. BOM’s ensemble of professional actors, comedians and musicians bring the young authors’ stories to life as raucous sketches, songs and movement pieces, performing first for students in their schools and then for the public. These stories – from hilarious dialogues between unlikely characters to poignant pleas for social change – resonate with adults while celebrating the imaginations of young people. Every week brings a new line-up of stories, and BOM invites audiences to vote on their favorites at each performance.



PRODUCTION DETAILS:

Title: THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Goes Trick or Treating
Written by: Chicago Elementary School Students
Adapted for the stage by: Barrel of Monkeys Company Members
Directors: Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd
Cast: Barrel of Monkeys Company Members Elisa Carlson, Lindsey Dorcus, Linsey Falls, Barry Irving, Nic Park, Bradford Stevens, Rawson Vint and Rachel Wilson.

Location: Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago
Dates: Preview: Sunday, October 6 at 3 pm
Press performance: Sunday, October 13 at 3 pm
Regular run: Sunday, October 20 – Sunday, November 3, 2019
Curtain Times: Sundays at 3 pm
Tickets: Previews: $10 for adults, $5 children 12 and under, $8 groups of 10 or more. Regular run: $20 for adults, $10 for children 12 and under. Discounts: $12 for students with ID, seniors, veterans and groups of 10 or more people. Teen Arts Pass (TAP) members: $5 with ID. Tickets are currently available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org or by calling (773) 506-7140.




About the Director
Brandon Cloyd joined Barrel of Monkeys in 2007 and has been deeply involved in many facets of the company ever since. Prior to joining BOM, Brandon graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and a minor in Business Institutions. Within BOM, Brandon has served as an actor, teaching artist, lead teacher, a member of Teacher Corps, as well as directing shows for schools and public performances of That's Weird, Grandma. Before becoming the company’s Artistic Director in September 2017, Brandon served as BOM After-School Program Coordinator at Loyola Park from 2014-2016 and Program Director from 2016-2017. Outside of Barrel of Monkeys, he worked as the Associate Director of Camp Echo, where he has spent 13 summers managing campers and staff at a co-ed sleep away camp in Upstate New York. Brandon has worked with other theatre companies including Urban Theatre Company, American Theater Company, Filament Theatre, InGen Productions, ACLE's Teatrino in Italy and Purple Crayon Players at Northwestern University. Brandon recently joined the Board of Directors for the League of Chicago Theatres.

About Barrel of Monkeys

Since Barrel of Monkeys’ inception in 1997, its teaching artists have served more than 60 Chicago Public Schools. Over 15,000 elementary school students have participated in the Barrel of Monkeys programs, which aim to build students' writing skills, improve self-esteem, and instill confidence in their ideas and abilities.

Barrel of Monkeys is sponsored in part by Wintrust Financial, Allscripts, Inc., Ernst and Young and Punchkick Interactive. It receives generous support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency; the National Endowment for the Arts; a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events; the Chicago Community Trust; Crown Family Philanthropies; Alphawood Foundation of Chicago; the Maurice R. and Meta G. Gross Foundation; Polk Bros Foundation; the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation; the Robert and Isabelle Bass Foundation, Inc.; The Saints; The Topfer Family Foundation, and many other generous individuals and foundations. 

OPENING: Stories That Sing and Dance Via Barrel of Monkeys' Long Running THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List:

Barrel of Monkeys Presents

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: 

Stories That Sing and Dance

Directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd

May 3 – 25, 2019 at the Neo-Futurist Theater

An Original Sketch Show that is Written by Kids, 

Performed by Grownups, and Enjoyed by Humans

  
Barrel of Monkeys has been a fav of ours for years, here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows. They're long running for a reason! Check out their quirky hybrid of kid created camp, distilled, directed and acted by professional adult actors. It's a compelling combo that's ever changing. If you can make it in May, there's an added bonus of MUSIC too. Don't miss this. BOM's annual all musical edition is only playing through May 25th. Also note, this one's on the weekends instead of the usual Monday school night time slot, so bring the kids! 

Barrel of Monkeys is pleased to present the annual all musical edition of its much-lauded sketch show: THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Stories That Sing and Dance, directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd, playing Fridays and Saturday at 7:30 pm from May 3 – 25, 2019 at the Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago. Tickets are currently available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org or by calling (773) 506-7140. 

Kaylyn Carter and Arielle Leverett perform “One Day Washing Clothes” 

in Barrel of Monkeys’ all-musical revue THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Stories That Sing and Dance. All Production Photos by Evan Hanover.

(left to right) Nic Park, Rachel Wilson, Bryan Bosque and Kaylyn Carter perform “The Queen with No Friends” 

Back by popular demand, BOM’s all-musical line-up returns with a mix of new and classic song-and-dance numbers performed to music composed and designed by the talented musicians of Barrel of Monkeys. Now performing in prime-time for the first time ever!

The cast includes Noah Appelbaum, Bryan Bosque, Kaylyn Carter, Linsey Falls, Isabella Gerasole, Gaby Hirsch, Arielle Leverett, Nic Park, Jon Schneidman, Carly Wicks and Rachel Wilson.

(left to right) Arielle Leverett, Gabriella Hirsch and Kaylyn Carter perform “The Girl Who Said No”  

 (left to right) Kaylyn Carter, Nic Park, Carly Wicks, Brandon Cloyd and Bryan Bosque perform “IRS Moles” 

(front, l to r) Linsey Falls and Bryan Bosque perform “Dear Government” 

Now in its eighteenth year, THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA features adaptations of stories written during Barrel of Monkeys’ creative writing residencies in Chicago elementary schools. BOM’s ensemble of professional actors, comedians and musicians bring the young authors’ stories to life as raucous sketches, songs and movement pieces, performing first for students in their schools and then for the public. These stories – from hilarious dialogues between unlikely characters to poignant pleas for social change – resonate with adults while celebrating the imaginations of young people. Every week brings a new line-up of stories, and BOM invites audiences to vote on their favorites at each performance.

Location: Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago
Dates: Preview: Friday, May 3 at 7:30 pm
Press performance: Saturday, May 4 at 7:30 pm
Regular run: Friday, May 10 – Sunday, May 25, 2019
Curtain Times: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm
Tickets: Previews: $10 for adults, $5 children 12 and under, $8 groups of 10 or more. Regular run: $20 for adults; $5 for children 12 and under. Discounts: $12 for students with ID, seniors, veterans and groups of 10 or more people. Teen Arts Pass (TAP) members: $5 with ID. Tickets are currently available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org or by calling (773) 506-7140.

(left to right) Brandon Cloyd, Arielle Leverett and Stewart Romeo perform “Malcolm X and the Monster and Zombie Infection” 

 (left to right) Gabriella Hirsch and Linsey Falls perform “The Prince and Princess” 

About the Director
Brandon Cloyd joined Barrel of Monkeys in 2007 and has been deeply involved in many facets of the company ever since. Prior to joining BOM, Brandon graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and a minor in Business Institutions. Within BOM, Brandon has served as an actor, teaching artist, lead teacher, a member of Teacher Corps, as well as directing shows for schools and public performances of That's Weird, Grandma. Before becoming the company’s Artistic Director in September 2017, Brandon served as BOM After-School Program Coordinator at Loyola Park from 2014-2016 and Program Director from 2016-2017. Outside of Barrel of Monkeys, he worked as the Associate Director of Camp Echo, where he has spent 13 summers managing campers and staff at a co-ed sleep away camp in Upstate New York. Brandon has worked with other theatre companies including Urban Theatre Company, American Theater Company, Filament Theatre, InGen Productions, ACLE's Teatrino in Italy and Purple Crayon Players at Northwestern University. Brandon recently joined the Board of Directors for the League of Chicago Theatres.



About Barrel of Monkeys
Since Barrel of Monkeys’ inception in 1997, its teaching artists have served more than 60 Chicago Public Schools. Over 15,000 elementary school students have participated in the Barrel of Monkeys programs, which aim to build students' writing skills, improve self-esteem, and instill confidence in their ideas and abilities.

Barrel of Monkeys is sponsored in part by Wintrust Financial, Allscripts, Inc., Ernst and Young and Punchkick Interactive. It receives generous support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency; the National Endowment for the Arts; a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events; the Chicago Community Trust; Crown Family Philanthropies; Alphawood Foundation of Chicago; the Maurice R. and Meta G. Gross Foundation; Polk Bros Foundation; the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation; the Robert and Isabelle Bass Foundation, Inc.; The Saints; The Topfer Family Foundation, and many other generous individuals and foundations. 

(left to right) Linsey Falls, Bryan Bosque, Gabriella Hirsch, Brandon Cloyd and Arielle Leverett perform “The Girl and The Panda” 

  (left to right) Gabriella Hirsch, Rachel Wilson, Nic Park and Carly Wicks perform “Glacier Living with Sharks”

 (left to right) Bryan Bosque, Gabriella Hirsch and Rachel Wilson perform “My Bugatti”

in Barrel of Monkeys’ all-musical revue THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Stories That Sing and Dance. All Production Photos by Evan Hanover.

REVIEW: Barrel of Monkeys Presents THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA Rings in the Holidays Through December 22nd, 2018

Still The BOM!

Barrel of Monkeys Presents

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA 

Rings in the Holidays

Directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd

Through December 22, 2018 at the Neo-Futurist Theater

(left to right) Barrel of Monkeys company members Oly Oxinfry, Noah Appelbaum, Barry Irving, Ashley Bland and Kayla Pulley, perform “The Girl and the Panda” Photo by Evan Hanover.

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar: 

An Original Sketch Show 

that is Written by Kids, Performed by Grownups, 

and Enjoyed by Humans

Review
by bonnie kenaz-mara

All my teacher friends can attest to the fact that kids come up with some crazy stories. Barrel of Monkeys (BOM) takes this rampant kid creativity one step further by mounting these stories on stage and even adding music to some of the sketches. The result is a bit absurd, a bit surreal, and a big dose of funny. 

We can vouch for the "written by kids" claims, as every scene begins with the school and names of all the writers. We can also enthusiastically verify the "enjoyed by humans" part. My 17 year old son and I laughed throughout the production last night. In fact, we've been enjoying BOM shows for years. (**I do have to say, we've never laughed as hard as we did at the "Elephants Come To My House" sketch, years ago. That's still our reigning BOM fav.) That said, the current show's pretty freakin' funny! The jury's still out on the "performed by adults" part. I'd swear these professional actors are truly oversized children in disguise. They're the perfect blend of over the top energy, comedic timing, and wacky facial expressions to bring these pieces to life. Adults or not, they slay with this seasonal treat. 

(left to right) Barrel of Monkeys’ company members Kayla Pulley, Stewart Romeo, Meredith Milliron and Raquel Torre perform “Santa’s Mean Day” Photo by Evan Hanover.

What's more fun than a Barrel of Monkeys? How about a holiday themed compilation featuring Barrel of Monkeys faves from seasons past, mixed with nog snorting new nuggets of hilarity that are sure to make your holiday merry and bright. 

All the usual holiday suspects are here, like Santa, reindeer, elves, a poignant tribute to Hanukkah in song, and even Krampus. Yet BOM doesn't stop there. Expect a mash up of the macabre, including multiple monsters, apex predators, and dead rock stars in cozy concert venues. 

(left to right) Barrel of Monkeys company members Stewart Romeo, Meredith Milliron, Brandon Cloyd, Barry Irving and Kayla Pulley perform “Monster’s Belly” Photo by Evan Hanover.

(left to right) Barrel of Monkeys company members Brandon Cloyd, Raquel Torre and Oly Oxinfry perform “The North Pole” Photo by Evan Hanover.

In one of our favorite pieces, BOM makes a dramatic entrance "purse first", as a rather outspoken handbag named Betsey Johnson who scares her "purse landlord" into fulfilling all her demands. Purse first indeed! 

(left to right) Barrel of Monkeys company members Ashley Bland, Raquel Torre, Brandon Cloyd and Oly Oxinfry perform “Dear Purse Landlord” Photo by Evan Hanover.

We're still snickering over the directionally challenged child who tried to ride a reindeer southwest to the North Pole, a hip hop ode to the joys of messier houses that I'm completely on board with, and too many more to mention. Generally you have to wait for Mondays to roll around to catch these monkeys, but the holiday special is also happening this Thursday through Saturday, so you have zero excuses. It's a great, all ages show, as funny to young kids and teens as it is for so called "grownups". Don't miss this!

Bonnie Kenaz-Mara is a Chicago based writer-theater critic-photographer-videographer-actress-artist-general creatrix and Mama to two terrific teens. She owns two websites where she has published frequently since 2008: ChiILLiveShows.com (adult) & ChiILMama.com (family friendly). 

(left to right) Barrel of Monkeys’ company members Oly Oxinfry and Brandon Cloyd perform “Messier Houses” Photo by Evan Hanover.

 Barrel of Monkeys’ company members (front) Kayla Pulley with (back, l to r) Raquel Torre, Ashley Bland, Oly Oxinfry and Brandon Cloyd perform “Messier Houses”  Photo by Evan Hanover.

Barrel of Monkeys celebrates the season with 

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA 

Rings in the Holidays, 

directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd, 

playing Mondays at 8 pm (plus special weekend performances) through December 22, 2018 at the Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago. 

Tickets are currently available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org or by calling (773) 506-7140.

Barrel of Monkeys’ beloved holiday special returns with a mix of classic stories from the That’s Weird, Grandma repertoire alongside brand new sketches and songs. Make That’s Weird, Grandma your family’s newest holiday tradition!

The cast includes Noah Appelbaum, Maeli Goren, Jordan Harris, Barry Irving, Meredith Milliron, Oly Oxinfry, Kayla Pulley, Mary Tilden and Raquel Torre.

Now in its eighteenth year, THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA features adaptations of stories written during Barrel of Monkeys’ creative writing residencies in Chicago elementary schools. BOM’s ensemble of professional actors, comedians and musicians bring the young authors’ stories to life as raucous sketches, songs and movement pieces, performing first for students in their schools and then for the public. These stories – from hilarious dialogues between unlikely characters to poignant pleas for social change – resonate with adults while celebrating the imaginations of young people. Every week brings a new line-up of stories, and BOM invites audiences to vote on their favorites at each performance.

 (left to right) Barrel of Monkeys’ company members Barry Irving, Kayla Pulley, Ashley Bland and Stewart Romeo perform “The Butler” Photo by Evan Hanover.

Location: Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago

Performance Schedule
Monday, December 10 at 8 pm (preview)
Monday, December 17 at 8 pm (press performance)
Thursday, December 20 at 8 pm
Friday, December 21 at 8 pm
Saturday, December 22 at 8 pm

Tickets: Preview: $10 for adults, $5 children 12 and under, $8 groups of 10 or more. Regular run: $20 for adults in advance; $5 for children 12 and under; $12 for seniors, students, veterans/military and groups of 10 or more. Teen Arts Pass (TAP) members: $5 with ID. Tickets are currently available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org or by calling (773) 506-7140.

About the Director
Brandon Cloyd joined Barrel of Monkeys in 2007 and has been deeply involved in many facets of the company ever since. Prior to joining BOM, Brandon graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and a minor in Business Institutions. Within BOM, Brandon has served as an actor, teaching artist, lead teacher, a member of Teacher Corps, as well as directing shows for schools and public performances of That's Weird, Grandma. Before becoming the company’s Artistic Director in September 2017, Brandon served as BOM After-School Program Coordinator at Loyola Park from 2014-2016 and Program Director from 2016-2017. Outside of Barrel of Monkeys, he worked as the Associate Director of Camp Echo, where he has spent 13 summers managing campers and staff at a co-ed sleep away camp in Upstate New York. Brandon has worked with other theatre companies including Urban Theatre Company, American Theater Company, Filament Theatre, InGen Productions, ACLE's Teatrino in Italy and Purple Crayon Players at Northwestern University.

(pictured) Barrel of Monkeys company member Meredith Milliron performs “Jerry Like to Work” Photo by Evan Hanover.

About Barrel of Monkeys
Since Barrel of Monkeys’ inception in 1997, its teaching artists have served more than 60 Chicago Public Schools. Over 15,000 elementary school students have participated in the Barrel of Monkeys programs, which aim to build students' writing skills, improve self-esteem, and instill confidence in their ideas and abilities.


Barrel of Monkeys is sponsored in part by Wintrust Financial, Allscripts, Inc., Ernst and Young and Punchkick Interactive. It receives generous support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency; the National Endowment for the Arts; a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events; the Chicago Community Trust; Crown Family Philanthropies; Alphawood Foundation of Chicago; the Maurice R. and Meta G. Gross Foundation; Polk Bros Foundation; the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation; the Robert and Isabelle Bass Foundation, Inc.; The Saints; The Topfer Family Foundation, and many other generous individuals and foundations. 

OPENING: Barrel of Monkeys Presents THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA Rings in the Holidays

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

Barrel of Monkeys Presents

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA 

Rings in the Holidays

Directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd

December 10 – 22, 2018 at the Neo-Futurist Theater

An Original Sketch Show that is Written by Kids,

Performed by Grownups, and Enjoyed by Humans

ChiIL Mama will be out for the press opening, Monday, December 17th, so check back shortly after for our full review. BOM and THAT’S WEIRD,
GRANDMA are long time favorites of ours. Check it out!

Barrel of Monkeys celebrates the season with THAT’S WEIRD,
GRANDMA Rings in the Holidays, directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd, playing Mondays at 8pm (plus special weekend performances) from December 10 – December 22, 2018 at the Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago. Tickets are currently available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org
or by calling (773) 506-7140. 



Barrel of Monkeys’ beloved holiday special returns with a mix of classic stories from the That’s Weird, Grandma repertoire alongside brand new sketches and songs. Make That’s Weird, Grandma your family’s newest holiday tradition!

The cast includes Noah Appelbaum, Ashley Bland, Maeli Goren, Barry Irving, Meredith Milliron, Deanna Myers, Oly Oxinfry, Mary Tilden, Raquel Torre and Rawson Vint.





Now in its eighteenth year, THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA features adaptations of stories written during Barrel of Monkeys’ creative writing residencies in Chicago elementary schools. BOM’s ensemble of professional actors, comedians and musicians bring the young authors’ stories to life as raucous sketches, songs and movement pieces, performing first for students in their schools and then for the public. These stories – from hilarious dialogues between unlikely characters to poignant pleas for social change – resonate with adults while celebrating the imaginations of young people. Every week brings a new line-up of stories, and BOM invites audiences to vote on their favorites at each performance.



Location: 
Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago

Performance Schedule:
Monday, December 10 at 8 pm (preview)
Monday, December 17 at 8 pm (press performance)
Thursday, December 20 at 8 pm
Friday, December 21 at 8 pm
Saturday, December 22 at 8 pm

Tickets: 
Preview: $10 for adults, $5 children 12 and under, $8 groups of 10 or more. Regular run: $20 for adults in advance; $5 for children 12 and under; $12 for seniors, students, veterans/military and groups of 10 or more. Teen Arts Pass (TAP) members: $5 with ID. Tickets are currently available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org or by calling (773) 506-7140.



About the Director
Brandon Cloyd joined Barrel of Monkeys in 2007 and has been deeply involved in many facets of the company ever since. Prior to joining BOM, Brandon graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and a minor in Business Institutions. Within BOM, Brandon has served as an
actor, teaching artist, lead teacher, a member of Teacher Corps, as well as directing shows for schools and public performances of That's Weird, Grandma. Before becoming the company’s Artistic Director in September 2017, Brandon served as BOM After-School Program Coordinator at Loyola Park from 2014-2016 and Program Director from 2016-2017. Outside of Barrel of Monkeys, he worked as the Associate Director of Camp Echo, where he has spent 13 summers managing campers and staff at a co-ed sleep away camp in Upstate New York. Brandon has worked with other theatre companies including Urban Theatre Company, American Theater Company, Filament Theatre, InGen Productions, ACLE's Teatrino in Italy and Purple Crayon Players at Northwestern University.

About Barrel of Monkeys
Since Barrel of Monkeys’ inception in 1997, its teaching artists have served more than 60 Chicago Public Schools. Over 15,000 elementary school students have participated in the Barrel of Monkeys programs,
which aim to build students' writing skills, improve self-esteem, and instill confidence in their ideas and abilities.

Barrel of Monkeys is sponsored in part by Wintrust Financial, Allscripts, Inc., Ernst and Young and Punchkick Interactive. It receives generous support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency; the National Endowment for the Arts; a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events; the Chicago Community Trust; Crown Family Philanthropies; Alphawood Foundation of Chicago; the Maurice R. and Meta G. Gross Foundation; Polk Bros Foundation; the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation; the Robert and Isabelle Bass Foundation, Inc.; The Saints; The Topfer Family Foundation, and many other generous individuals and foundations.

OPENING: THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Brand New Stories Via Barrel of Monkeys from June 18 – July 16, 2018

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List: Family Friendly Theatre Fun

Barrel of Monkeys Presents

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Brand New Stories

Directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd

June 18 – July 16, 2018 at the Neo-Futurist Theater

Mad love and belly laughs to one of our long running favorites, Barrel of Monkeys' THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA. They've been a Chicago Monday night staple since 1997, with ever changing stories penned by Chicago school kids and brought to life on stage in gut busting glory by professional actors. The 8pm Monday time slot is for other actors, most of whom have an off night after working all weekend. The best thing about BOM's summer run is, you can bring the kids! 

Barrel of Monkeys proudly presents THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Brand New Stories, a line-up of all new stories written by Chicago elementary school students during the 2017-18 school year. Be among the first to experience the newest songs, sketches and dance pieces adapted from stories written by students in Barrel of Monkeys’ creative writing workshops. Directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd, THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Brand New Stories will play Mondays at 8 pm from June 18 – July 16, 2018 at the Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago. Tickets are available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org or by calling (773) 506-7140. 

Clever and funny – touching and poignant – the collection of stories featured in THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA is equally entertaining for adults and children. The line-up of the long-running, critically-acclaimed revue changes each week by audience vote, so no two shows are ever the same. 

Barrel of Monkeys, a Chicago-based arts education theater ensemble now in its 21st season, conducts creative writing workshops with 2nd through 7th grade students in underserved Chicago elementary schools and in its own after-school program. The ensemble of actor-educators then turns their stories and poems into professionally performed theater, presented both in-school and for the general public through its revues. Barrel of Monkeys annually performs more than 300 stories for the students in their schools and 175 stories on the stage for the general public.
  
Location: Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago
Dates: June 18 – July 16, 2018
Curtain Times: Mondays at 8 pm 

Tickets: $15 for adults; $5 for children 12 and under. Discounts: $10 for students with ID, seniors, veterans and groups of 10 or more people. $5 for Teen Arts Pass (TAP) members. Tickets are available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org or by calling (773) 506-7140.

About the Director
Brandon Cloyd joined Barrel of Monkeys in 2007 and has been deeply involved in many facets of the company ever since. Prior to joining BOM, Brandon graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and a minor in Business Institutions. Within BOM, Brandon has served as an actor, teaching artist, lead teacher, a member of Teacher Corps, as well as a director for schools and public performances of That's Weird, Grandma. Before becoming the company’s Artistic Director in September 2017, Brandon served as BOM After-School Program Coordinator at Loyola Park from 2014-2016 and Program Director from 2016-2017. Outside of Barrel of Monkeys, he worked as the Associate Director of Camp Echo, where he has spent 13 summers managing campers and staff at a co-ed sleep away camp in Upstate New York. Brandon has worked with other theatre companies including Urban Theatre Company, American Theater Company, Filament Theatre, Ingen Productions, ACLE's Teatrino in Italy and Purple Crayon Players at Northwestern University.

About Barrel of Monkeys
Since Barrel of Monkeys’ inception in 1997, its teaching artists have served more than 60 Chicago Public Schools. Over 15,000 elementary school students have participated in the Barrel of Monkeys programs, which aim to build students' writing skills, improve self-esteem, and instill confidence in their ideas and abilities.

Barrel of Monkeys is sponsored in part by Wintrust Financial, Allscripts, Inc., Ernst and Young and Punchkick Interactive. It receives generous support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency; the National Endowment for the Arts; a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events; the Chicago Community Trust; Crown Family Philanthropies; Alphawood Foundation of Chicago; the Maurice R. and Meta G. Gross Foundation; Polk Bros Foundation; the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation; the Robert and Isabelle Bass Foundation, Inc.; The Saints; The Topfer Family Foundation, and many other generous individuals and foundations. 

Take the Kids While It's Still Summer! Barrel of Monkeys (BOM) Every Monday Night

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

That’s Weird, Grandma

written by kids. performed by grownups. enjoyed by humans.

Sometimes it's easy to put off seeing the long running shows. They're always there... every week. Well don't. There's a reason they're long running shows. They're just that good! Barrel of Monkeys' (BOM) is one of those. They are long time favs of ours here at ChiIL Mama & ChiIL Live Shows. The kids and adults in our family all adore them. The rotating scenes are written by Chicago area school kids, then brought to the stage by pros with hilarious results. Barrel of Monkeys truly is the bomb. Take your kids while they're out of school and can still sleep in on Tuesday morning. We practically guarantee you'll laugh a LOT.

BOM has been doin' their thang for 15 years now!! Still, with a Monday show time (so their theatre friends can go on what's usually a dark day for other theatres), it's tough to bring school age kids, though the show is written by kids and is fine for all ages. Do note, it is short(ish) and generally over by 9pm, so it's not a crazy late night, especially for summertime. Here at ChiIL Mama & ChiIL Live Shows we highly recommend them, because really, what's more fun that a Barrel of Monkeys?! 

ON STAGE NOW: That’s Weird, Grandma: The Summer Strikes Back
(View Full Calendar)

WHEN: Mondays at 8pm, June 13 - August 15
WHERE: The Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland (Directions)
HOW MUCH: $6 for kids, $12 for adults

BUY TICKETS

What is That’s Weird, Grandma?

That’s Weird, Grandma is a variety show of short sketches and songs adapted from stories written by students in Barrel of Monkeys’ arts education programs. The weekly show, now in its 15th year, runs the gamut from clever and funny to touching and poignant, and includes live music, original song-and-dance numbers, wigs and props galore, and a rotating cast of talented professional actors who celebrate the imaginations of children through this raucous performance.

You probably already knew that the show changes every week, as we adapt new stories and audience members vote on their favorites. But did you ALSO know that we divide the show into “Rounds” with special themes, in order to keep the show fresh and exciting for you? Our current round is That’s Weird, Grandma: The Summer Strikes Back.

Save the Dates:

Upcoming Rounds!

That’s Weird, Grandma: It Came from the Voting Booth
Mondays at 8pm, August 22 - October 3 and October 24 - November 28

That’s Weird, Grandma: The Holiday Special Returns
Mondays at 8pm AND Sundays at 2pm, December 4 - December 26

All-Musical Revue!!! Barrel of Monkeys Presents THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Behind the [Monkey] Music

As if Barrel of Monkeys Theatre isn't already more fun than... now they've added MUSIC to the monkeys, madness & magic!!  

Now that my kids are opinionated tweens I always give them free choice on what productions they'd like to review with me.  They often want to read the press releases, watch the YouTube clips and then give me a yay or nay.

When I asked if they wanted to see THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Behind the [Monkey] Music, it took them both all of a nanosecond to shriek an enthusiastic YES!!!!

ChiIL Mama will be there tonight and we'll have a full review up shortly.  Come on out and bring your family.  And just think, it's not reeeeeeally as late as it was just last week.  Sure, it's a school night (so industry peeps who are dark on Mondays can catch the shows) but the shows are fine for all ages and you know the kids will be squirrely and awake anyway, while their internal clocks take time to reset to daylight savings.  

All-Musical Revue!!!

Barrel of Monkeys Presents

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Behind the [Monkey] Music

Co-Directed By Molly Brennan, Erick Deshaun Dorris 

& Gwen Tulin

March 2 – 31, 2014

Barrel of Monkeys is pleased to present THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Behind the [Monkey] Music, an all-musical revue featuring a full evening of student stories adapted into songs by Barrel of Monkeys talented team of composers, co-directed by Artistic Director Molly Brennan, Company Member Erick Deshaun Dorris and Musical Director Gwen Tulin. This first-ever Behind the [Monkey] Music retrospective will include live interviews with composers who will discuss adaptation anecdotes and onstage antics that have become the signature delight of That's Weird, Grandma.  

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Behind the [Monkey] Music plays March 2 – 31, 2014 (Sundays at 2 pm and Mondays at 8 pm) at the Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago.  For tickets, reservations and information visit www.barrelofmonkeys.org or call (312) 409-1954. 

Barrel of Monkeys, a Chicago-based arts education theater ensemble now in its 16^th season, conducts creative writing workshops with 3^rd through 5^th grade students in underserved Chicago Public Schools. The ensemble of actor-educators then turns their stories and words into professionally performed theater, presented both in-school and for the general public through its revues. Barrel of Monkeys annually performs more than 300 student-written stories for the students in their schools and 175 stories on the stage for the general public.

Clever and funny – touching and poignant – Barrel of Monkeys’ collection of short sketches are equally entertaining for both adults and children. The line-up changes each week by audience vote – so no two shows are ever the same. 

Spring Into THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA will play April 7 – May 12, 2014 (Mondays at 8 pm).

PRODUCTION DETAILS:

Title:  THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: Behind the [Monkey] Music 

Written by:  Chicago Public School Students

Adapted for the stage by:  Barrel of Monkeys Company Members

Co-Directors: Molly Brennan, Erick Deshaun Dorris and Gwen Tulin

Featuring:  Barrel of Monkeys Company Members

Location:  Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago

Dates:  March 2 – 31, 2014  

Curtain Times: Sundays at 2 pm and Mondays at 8 pm

Tickets:  $12 for adults; $6 for children under 12. Tickets are available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org or by calling (312) 409-1954.

About the Directors

Molly Brennan, a Barrel of Monkeys company member since 1999, has held a variety of positions in the company, including actor, teacher, lead teacher, director and artistic associate. She was named Artistic Director in 2011. Brennan is also a Company Member of 500 Clown, and has performed in Chicago and toured all over the country. Her recent acting credits include: The Life and Death of Madam Barker at Red Tape Theatre, Second City’s Guide to the Opera at Lyric, Lookingglass Theatre's Peter Pan, A Play and Lookingglass Alice; and Harpo Marx in Goodman Theatre's Animal Crackers. She has also performed with About Face Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre, The House Theatre of Chicago, Lifeline Theatre and Factory Theater.

Erick Deshaun Dorris is and artist and educator based out of Chicago. He has been a company member of Barrel of Monkeys since 2007. Erick is also the Director of Curricular Enhancements at the Academy for Urban School Leadership (AUSL), where he oversees Fine Arts and Out-of-School Time programs for a network of 28 schools.  Erick maintains an active performance schedule at cabarets, theaters and music venues across Chicagoland. He graduated from Millikin University and continued his studies at the Instituto Cultural Dominico-Americano (ICDA) and Roosevelt University.

Gwen Tulin is a theater artist, musician and arts educator who has been working in Chicago since 2006. In addition to Barrel of Monkeys, Gwen is a Music Director at Second City, manages blackbox theater venue Gorilla Tango Bucktown, and co-creates original rock musicals alongside Chicago youth with Brain Surgeon Theater. She holds a BA in Theatre Arts and Creative Writing from Brandeis University (Waltham, MA) and a Special Degree in Theatre for Social Change from the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal (Pietermaritzburg, South Africa). 

About Barrel of Monkeys

Since Barrel of Monkeys’ inception in 1997 it has worked in 57 Chicago Public Schools. More than 7,000 lower-income elementary school students have participated in the Barrel of Monkeys programs that provide a rare opportunity for creative expression and build literacy skills, self-esteem and confidence in student ideas and abilities.