In December of 2018 we produced a very successful, developmental workshop of Eliana Pipes's new play, DREAM HOU$E, at INTAR Theatre and, this summer, Checkmark Theatre Company is bringing DREAM HOU$E to Ars Nova’s ANT Fest! Ars Nova exists to discover, develop and launch singular theater, music and comedy artists in the early stages of their professional careers, and they have awarded Checkmark a slot to produce a full production DREAM HOU$E. Within ANT Fest, we are given theater space, as well as lighting and sound equipment, for a one night-only performance on June 12th at 7pm—BUT we need your help to get there.

DREAM HOU$E tells the story of two Latinx sisters selling their family home on an HGTV-style show, hoping to capitalize on the gentrification in their “changing neighborhood.” As the sisters perform for the camera, they slip into the surreal, negotiating turmoil in the family’s past with sacrifice for the family’s future Making us all face the question - what is the cultural cost of progress in America?

Producing the first, fully realized production of DREAM HOU$E takes a village. This means assembling a team of scenic, sound, costume and lighting designers; a production staff to run the daily operations of developing new work, and rehearsing with our cast for 3 weeks leading up to our performance at Ars Nova.

Below, you can find a chart displaying how funds will be distributed throughout the production:

Since our founding in October, 2017, Checkmark has been dedicated to supporting underrepresented artists; we showcase their work and employ them! As we build our team, we acknowledge that financial constraints block many underrepresented artists, and People of Color specifically, from participating and honing their crafts within the theater industry. Due to socio-economic disparities, and very few educational and/or internship opportunities that pay living wages, many artists of color lack the means to pursue careers in the arts. At Checkmark, we welcome these talented, resourceful artists into the rehearsal room and onto the stage, and we make it our mission to pay every artist for their time and talents. Great work comes from investing in your team both artistically and financially so, please, join us in bridging the divide in our industry by supporting this production. By doing so, you’ll help ensure our stories get told and make this journey to Ars Nova’s ANT Fest accessible for all involved!

If interested, you can purchase tickets here, and we hope to see you at the show.

Pa'lante,

Team Checkmark