KIDOONS / WYRD PRODUCTIONS (Rick Miller) - MONTRÉAL AND TORONTO
WORLDWIDE
Incorporated in January 2000, WYRD Productions has been involved in the development of new theatre since 1995. Founded by Rick Miller and Jeff Lord as a company devoted to multi-disciplinary artistic creation, it has evolved into one of Canada’s leading international exporters of culture. Past projects include the worldwide hits MacHomer and (with Daniel Brooks)Bigger Than Jesus and HARDSELL.
Current projects in development with Kidoons include:
BOOM, created, directed and performed by Rick Miller. BOOM is an explosive solo performance that documents the music, culture and politics that shaped the Baby Boom generation (1945-1969). BOOMtakes us through 25 turbulent years, and gives voice to over a 100 influential politicians, activists and musicians. It's a mind-blowing experience for audiences of all generations. With 250 performances in 2015-16, BOOM was the most presented new show in Canada, and is now booking for U.S. runs. “A can't-miss theatrical experience. There is no question BOOM will become an international hit because its themes, characters and music are universal... Miss it at your own peril. ★★★★★" (Calgary Sun)
Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Sea, created by Craig Francis and Rick Miller, and directed by Miller, is an immersive re-imagining of the Jules Verne's classic Sci-Fi adventure that explores the power of nature and the nature of power. Brought to stunning life through a mix of unforgettable characters, eye-popping projections and interactive technology, this family-friendly show encourages us to connect for the future. After a world premiere at the TO2015 PanAm Games, the show became an Off-Broadway hit at The New Victory Theater on 42nd Street in NYC. “MAGICAL! A frisky adaptation of the Jules Verne sci-fi saga… The acting is never less than zesty and the use of projections is sometimes jaw dropping!” (NY Times) “The special effects are so compelling... you can't take your eyes off the stage!” (Toronto Star)
Each Kidoons/WYRD Production features innovative outreach and educational opportunities for presenters. Besides school shows, talkbacks, and lobby interactivity, each onstage production is connected to online web series on the The Kidoons Network (ex: The Greatest Lakes: a Jerry Muskrat Adventure, Maritime Mink: A Billy Mink Adventure, Go West, Young Bear: a Buster Bear Adventure, Nautilus Leaks, Encyclopedia Canada, and many others.) Each series expands on the worlds of each stage show, creating an experience for audiences of all ages BEFORE, DURING, and AFTER each presentation, and connecting to themes of history, culture, ecology and technology. Kidoons also works with presenters to make additional connections with museums and organizations, expanding your reach and value, and helping your organization become a community hub.
“We loved the modern tie in of using a phone to film in the show. I felt that it helped engage the younger audience members by combining the new technology with the story. Now my boys not only wanted to read the book itself, but use some of the techniques they witnessed for their own filming. This is what theater is about!” (beyourbestmom.com)