Process and History

Process

Mosaic NY uses a collective and democratic approach to devising and rehearsing theatre, with members working collaboratively to select issues to explore through performance. Although the selection of the specific devising technique to be used for each piece is typically initiated by Heather May, the Artistic Director, the creation of the work is collaborative in nature. All scripts are considered both living documents and the property of the full company, and are influenced and revised based upon insights discovered with audiences.

Mosaic NY relies nearly exclusively upon the human body in performance. Although we incorporate acting cubes to provide a physical base for our work, we do not use properties, sound effects, or individualized costume elements. Instead we rely on the sounds and shapes created by the actors themselves in order to actively engage audience members in the process of creating meaning. Our reliance on the human form reinforces a central belief of the company that we are at our best when we draw collaboratively upon individual experiences and strengths to create community. This process also focuses attention upon human behavior, the very thing we wish to show as malleable and responsive.

History