“Cloudgaze Productions, an arts collective consisting of over 30 interdisciplinary artists from Western Massachusetts, collaborated with Eggtooth Productions to present “A Happening IV: Leviathan” at the Shea Theater in the final week of October, 2024. This multidisciplinary arts festival transformed the theater into a dynamic exploration of the theme “Leviathan,” featuring installations, sculpture, film and live performances of music, theater, and dance. The contributions of the local artists—many of whom identify as Queer, and gender non-conforming, created otherworldly environments and narratives inspired by folklore, fairy tales, horror motifs, American literature, and the mythos of the Old Testament. Central to the festival was the question: “What does it mean to encounter something greater than yourself and to be consumed by it?” Through this theme, we delved into how a community reemerges and imagines itself after destruction and transformation.
With the generous support of the Markham-Nathan Fund for Social Justice, Cloudgaze and Eggtooth Productions were able to provide financial compensation to the 37 artists who contributed their time and talents. The festival aimed to take classical themes and increase representation for diverse and historically silenced voices, provide paid performance opportunities for marginalized artists working at a high caliber, enhance equitable access to theater for individuals living with low to moderate incomes in a rural community, and foster collaboration among a wide range of creatives. Ultimately, “A Happening IV: Leviathan” showcased how the arts can envision possible futures that are more just, inclusive, and altruistic.” K Adler
