Gum-Dip Theatre

During rehearsal last night, three blimps flew overhead to celebrate 100 years in the sky. It was a nice reminder of the innovation that Akron has cultivated in the last 200 years as we continue to develop our play. Now we need the blimps to show up on cue for the performances at the end of July 😜

Gum–Dip Theatre is inviting actors, musicians, dancers, and interdisciplinary artists to a collaborative gathering for an original, site-based play in honor of Akron’s 200th birthday. This is not a traditional audition.

This gathering is an opportunity to connect, learn more about the project, and explore the creative process together. The script is already in development, and we are now seeking artists to help further shape it through their own creative contributions. Whether through movement, music, storytelling, or presence, ensemble members will help bring the script to life and enrich it with their unique perspectives and skills.

About the Process:
This is a hybrid performance that blends narrative scenes with poetic, abstract, and sensory-driven moments. It incorporates music, voice, projection, and physicality as part of the storytelling. Some of the work will be physically active and improvisational. You do not need to prepare a monologue or song—just come ready to collaborate, share, and play.

Rehearsal and Performance Details:
-Rehearsals begin in mid-May and run until late July
-Most rehearsals will take place in the evenings and on weekends
-The show will be staged outdoors at the amphitheater in Waters Park on July 31, August 1, 2, and 3, 2025
-Performers will be paid $1,500

To Attend:
Please RSVP by May 9 by emailing your name and a few lines about your interest to: [email protected]. If you have a headshot or resume, you may attach it—but it’s not required.

Who We’re Looking For
We strongly encourage participation from artists of all backgrounds, ages, and lived experiences. We are especially interested in reflecting the diversity of Akron’s communities on stage and behind the scenes.
Artists and community members who:
-Are excited to contribute to a script-in-progress through music, dance, and creative ideas
-Are open to collaboration and co-creation
-Are passionate about Akron’s stories and communities
-Are looking to grow in a supportive, inclusive, and imaginative ensemble

Sometimes we need time and silence to navigate the harshness of the world and recalibrate to reality. The work is happening, even in the shadows, until it's time to come to light. We are returning with a new production inspired by Akron Bicentennial this summer. More details to come!

Join us for the final chapter of Brokers Without Borders. This will be a limited seating engagement at the Balch Street Theatre that only runs December 15, 16, and 17. Find more info at catac-akron.com/brokerswithoutborders

Gum-Dip Theatre is one of five resident companies that are part of the Center for Applied Theatre and Active Culture. “Circus for the Arts” will activate the Balch Street Theatre with eccentricity and extravaganza, in order to support Akron’s alternative theatre collective!

General admission tickets to “Circus for the Arts” will get you in the door for a performance from Church of Starry Wisdom, the spectacle of stilt walking, and light refreshments, but attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase additional tickets for caricature drawings, oracle card readings, Peek-a-Booth (an artist vending machine), and more!

Buy tickets or donate at https://www.catac-akron.com/circus-for-the-arts-fundraiser