Uptown Players is thrilled to bring the regional premiere of Fire and Air, a captivating play by acclaimed playwright Terrence McNally, to the 6th Floor Studio Theatre in the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre at the AT&T Performing Arts Center. This production promises to ignite the intimate stage with its passionate storytelling and thought-provoking exploration of art, love, and the pursuit of perfection. 

Set in early 20th Century Pars Venice and Greece, Fire and Air delves into the tempestuous relationship between two legendary figures in the world of ballet: impresario Sergei Diaghilev and dancer Vaslav Nijinsky. Diaghilev, the founder of the renowned Ballets Russes, and Nijinsky, a groundbreaking male dancer, form a complex bond that intertwines artistic brilliance, personal desire, and the conflicts that arise from the pursuit of artistic excellence.

McNally's masterful script beautifully captures the tension between Diaghilev's insatiable ambition to create groundbreaking ballets and Nijinsky's struggle to balance his artistic expression with his own inner demons. The play delves deep into their passionate connection, their conflicts, and the sacrifices they make for their art.

With its richly drawn characters and captivating dialogue, Fire and Air provides a compelling glimpse into the world of ballet during a time of cultural upheaval. Audiences will be transported to the opulent and decadent world of the Ballets Russes, where creativity and personal relationships collide, leaving an indelible mark on the history of dance. Fire and Air is a must-see theatrical event for lovers of drama, dance, and compelling storytelling.

Cast



Patrick Bynane*

Sergei



Aaron Cash

Dmitry “Dima" Filosofov



Lisa Fairchild

Dunya



Marianne Galloway

Misia Sert



Dominic Pecikonis

Nijinsky



Danny Vanegas

Léonide Massine

Creative Team



Donna Marquet

Scenic Design



Cheryl Denson

Director



Kyle Harris

Lighting Designer



Carrie Ruth Trumbo

Choreographer



Suzi Cranford

Costume Designer



Joshua Nguyen

Sound Design



Michael B. Moore

Wig, Hair, and Makeup Designer

Production Team



Lexi Salmon*

Production Stage Manager



Noah Clark

Light Board Operator

* Member of Actors Equity Association, the union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. Through its agreement with Equity, this theatre has committed to the fair treatment of the actors and stage managers employed in this production.