UNC’s Department of Communication presents "The Four Underwear Models of the Apocalypse," a dance cycle that combines the theology of humankind and underpants — a blend destined to create a unique experience for its audience.
Producer and designer Rob Hamilton works as a professor, designer and technical director in Performance Studies in the Department of Communication. He teamed up with dance choreographer and professor Heather Tatreau, whose choreography has been performed locally and internationally.
Hamilton was inspired two years ago after discovering the work of a performance filmmaker. He grabbed the attention of Tatreau and together they decided to collaborate on a live show of their own.
“We’ve been working on this for almost two years solidly,” Hamilton said. “So, of course, it has taken on a depth and a breadth that I had not anticipated.”
The show incorporates global cosmology, the early beginnings of the universe and eschatology, the end of humankind, to create a modern absurdist take on the apocalypse. The performance will present the sins of humanity displaying the end of civilization, ultimately offering some hope in the end — all while in underpants.
“This is the kind of performance that will leave you with some questions and get you talking,” Tatreau said. “So, there is substance to it but it is fun, also.”
There will be discussions after each show where the audience is encouraged to stay and talk about what they saw and ask questions.
The show will cover relevant topics in an abstract form, without spoken word, allowing the audience to interpret the performance themselves. It will be a unique experience for everyone.
“In this time of this political atmosphere, I think it addresses some topics that need to be addressed in a non-offensive way,” assistant stage manager Hollie Rutledge said.
