Image: “Breathe” is an original multimedia work that was developed and conceived by UGA alumna Angelia Hall under the direction of professor emerita Freda Scott Giles. Through tweets, news articles, poetry, and song, “Breathe” attempts to contend with our current American moment – focusing on social issues, the current political landscape, and the ongoing pandemic. With the theatre and music industry roiled by the occupancy limitations imposed due to Covid-19, “Breathe” has faced myriad challenges throughout its production. “The entire experience has been one of adapting and adjusting,” Giles said. An early decision was made to rehearse exclusively over zoom until the filming of the show, which would take place in the spacious Fine Arts Theatre only after every member of the production team tested negative for the coronavirus. “Whereas zoom rehearsals were limited because the actors were mostly sitting at a computer, filming in the theatre allows for much more freedom in exploring space and movement.” The pandemic not only influenced the planning and procedures of the show, but also its content. Two issues at the forefront of the piece are the ever-present anxiety wrought by Covid-19 and how those anxieties are coinciding with the ongoing issues of race in the United States. “While there’s no question of the trauma associated with racism, there’s also a kind of national trauma that we’re all going through collectively right now,” said Giles. “’Breathe’ is structured around this notion of trauma and how we all individually cope and overcome, with an emphasis on collective healing.” The concept of coping with the anxieties and frustrations of this moment in history inspired a unique form of collaboration between the writer, director, and cast. Many of the segments depicted throughout “Breathe” are based on the experiences of the cast performing them, some through original poetry or songs. As Giles observed, “We’re inundated daily with the latest numbers or instances of racial injustice, but it’s another thing entirely to engage so personally with individual stories and find empathy and understanding there.” “This digital production is thrilling and exceptional in form, content, and process,” said David Saltz, head of the department of theatre and film Studies. “Our hope is that it will provide some much-needed solidarity and delight during these difficult times, and will remain as a reminder that something wonderful and remarkable can emerge from even the most trying and harrowing situations.” ATHENS, GA – UGA Theatre presents “Breathe” by UGA alumna Angela Hall, directed by Freda Scott Giles. Nov. 5–9, 11–13 at 8 p.m. livestreamed at ugatheatre.com/breathe. Tickets are pay-what-you-can with a free option. Reserve tickets by visiting ugatheatre.com/breathe. “Breathe” is a part of the annual Spotlight on the Arts festival at the University of Georgia.
