"If everything you drew became real, where would your imagination take you?"
This is the question that CHALK invites audiences of all ages to laugh, dance, and sigh through in this story about a charismatic clown who discovers magic chalk that makes everything he draws come to life. Charlie Chaplin meets Harold and the Purple Crayon in this whimsical romp guaranteed to 'draw you in.'
The Story of Chalk
Chalk has been in development for more than five years. In that time it has delighted theater goers at The Providence Fringe Festival, elementary schoolers at a children's theater camp, audiences at The Frigid Festival in New York City, senior citizens from New York's Chinatown (who didn't speak English...and they loved it!) and most recently as part of an ongoing residency at the Kraine Theater in NYC. After five years of refining and performances, it's finally ready for the world stage!
A non-verbal physical comedy in the style of the great silent-film era comedians, Chalk is a goofy testament to the power of a childlike imagination, and a moving exploration of the adult search for romantic love and connection. It's about the power we all have to grow from life’s challenges if we approach them with imagination, determination, and a healthy sense of humor.
Best of all, because Chalk is performed entirely without words, it's a story that's accessible to everyone - no matter how old they are, where they're from, or what language they speak. That's what makes Chalk special. It's a playful and imaginative journey with a personal, heartfelt message at its center that absolutely anybody can enjoy.
Why Edinburgh?
The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is the largest arts festival on the planet. Featuring established celebrities as well as unknown artists looking to build their careers, the Edinburgh Fringe is the place for new work to gain exposure and find a foothold in the global entertainment marketplace. For Chalk, a run at the Fringe represents an opportunity to be seen by international booking agents and also a chance to perform for diverse audiences of passionate theatergoers unlike anywhere else. Chalk has the power to inspire people anywhere on Earth with its heart and humor, and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is an incredible opportunity to share this innovative show with the world.
The Goal
In order to make it to Edinburgh, we are looking to raise money to cover production costs as well as to hire a support team with the expertise and experience to make Chalk's debut in Edinburgh a success. Our goal is to raise $21,637 that will go toward:
- renting the venue
- insurance
- marketing materials
- flights
- accommodations
- specialty prop design & construction
- specialty set design & construction
- graphic design
- projection design
- equipment rental
And a team including:
- a stage manager to run lights and sound
- a PR representative to help attract reviews and international booking agents
- a promoter to help pass out flyers and a get butts in seats!
And more...
Risks and Challenges
Because the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is the largest arts festival in the world, it's difficult to stand out among the thousands of other shows taking place there. Chalk's best chance of getting significant visibility is to showcase the best production with the greatest team possible. And the wheels are already in motion! The deposit on the venue has been paid, and the PR company has been found. The show is ready, the team is assembled - now we just have to get to Edinburgh and make it happen!
A Quick Note About Fractured Atlas
Chalk is a fiscally sponsored project thanks to Fractured Atlas. Fractured Atlas is an incredible arts organization that supports artists by (among other things) sharing their non-profit status with companies and individuals who wouldn't otherwise have the time or resources to get 501(c)(3) tax status on their own. Having the support of Fractured Atlas is why all donations made to Chalk are tax deductible!
In exchange for access to their invaluable services, Fractured Atlas charges a 7% fee on all donations received. This means that in order for Chalk to reach its fundraising goal, we will need to raise an additional $1,629 as a way of saying "Thank You" to Fractured Atlas for helping make Chalk's run in Edinburgh possible. Please consider adding a 7% "Thank You" to your donation in appreciation of Fractured Atlas, and to make sure that your contribution has the biggest impact possible helping bring Chalk across the pond!
THANK YOU
Additional Ways to Help
- Share this campaign with everyone you know!
- Like, follow & share our Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter accounts
- Come check out one of our monthly performances in NYC!
- Connect us with all your friends and relatives in Edinburgh!