Bond Street Theatre

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Directed by Joanna Sherman · Story by Michael McGuigan

Created by the ensemble of Bond Street Theatre

Music by Sean Nowell · Costumes by Kate Herman and Tomoko Naka

Set by Michael McGuigan · Masks by Joanna Sherman and Tomoko Naka

Cozmic Jazz — a Short History of the Universe is a satiric and humorous story about humanity -- and a comic commentary on “the meaning of life.” A blend of music, dance, circus, and comedy, the play abounds with curious characters and captivating imagery – all accompanied by compelling rhythms and great jazz. Both adults and children delight in the striking images, dancing, and creative artistry, while being charmed by the physical comedy and innate theatricality of Bond Street Theatre’s work.

“The characters, their music and dancing on stilts mirror the unity and conflicts of the Universe and its people.”

— Bekes Magyei Hirlap, Hungary

Cast Size:

8 actor-musicians

Running Time:

75 Minutes

Stage Size:

30’ w x 20’ d x 16’ h

Full Tech specs available upon request.

“Something happened which made me love these artists. They were balancing on stilts, playing the saxophone, wearing spectacular costumes and exquisite, unique masks. These people climbed over the fence between the stage and the public in order to get acquainted with their audience. They did it so easily as if they had been doing this all their lives. And they have: they climb over all kinds of barriers, ease tensions with humor and friendliness, and help us laugh at ourselves as well.”

— Vas Nepe, Hungary

From the chaos of the Cosmos comes this “Universal” tale of birth, life and the precarious pursuit of happiness. The story begins as a giant Bird and a great dancing Snake give birth to a peculiar band of humanoids. With the help of a mischievous Trickster they steal the sacred fire and head down the rocky road to modernity. Gangsters on stilts, tycoons in suits, dancing businessmen, singing spacemen, and competition run amok bringing us to a surprise ending.

The play uses no verbal language: we draw upon the symbolism of everyday actions and gestures to create our work, and use music and percussion as an integral element. Cozmic Jazz is full of unusual characters, fascinating visual images and skills, abundant physical comedy, masks, and great jazz. The show is designed for open-air or indoor festival presentation, for audiences of all ages.