Up for some political humor this weekend? Head out to Peacock Meadow in Golden Gate Park on Saturday to catch a performance of “2012 – The Musical!” by the San Francisco Mime Troupe.
The San Francisco Mime Troupe does not do pantomime, but rather ‘mime’ in the ancient sense: to mimic. They satirize, poking fun at the absurdities of contemporary life and social issues. Realizing that many working families – whose issues they often address in their shows – can’t afford theater ticket prices, they perform most of their shows for free in public parks for thousands every summer.
The plot of “2012 – The Musical!” follows a small political theater company, Theater BAM!, who finds itself at a crossroads: should they keep telling the stories they feel can change the world (and starve while telling them), or feed at the corporate trough, sell out, and be the mouthpiece for The Man? Tough decision. But before having to make it, they are offered an artistic commission that may save the company; all they have to do is create a new play, “2012 – The Musical!” But is it political? Will it keep with the company’s original mission? What’s the true purpose of this frivolous production, and who’s really bankrolling the thing?
The free performance takes place at Golden Gate Park’s Peacock Meadow from 1:30pm until 3:30pm, located just off JFK Drive near the Conservatory of Flowers.
If you can’t make Saturday’s performance, you can also catch the troupe at Glen Canyon Park on Sunday at 1:30pm. Visit the SFMT website for more scheduled dates.
Sarah B.
