The Dream is Nigh

It’s been a long time since I’ve seen some legit theater in the streets. This well orchestrated production, “The Dream is Nigh,” was held in my favorite place – the forest. About 50 or more revelers gathered under the foliage while musicians, poets and performance artists gathered us together to partake in a ritual surrounding the Kelpius Cave in Wissahickon Valley Park on the Sunday before Fall Equinox.

First they set the stage at the back of an historic house near the caves, with some music, incantations and dancing. Then the large group walked in procession through the woods singing, “The Dream is Nigh” while ringing bells and chimes. Once arrived at the cave, this spectacular musical collaboration awaited us.

It was a magical day in Wissahickon, one I won’t soon forget.  A huge thank you to the performance artists that wrote and directed The Dream is Night:  Marshall James Kavanaugh and Corey Bechelli, Stewards of the Dream. A wave and shout out to Joel Chartkoff and Robert Monk, who excited the crowd and invited them to join in the singing and dancing.

Cast and crew:
Robokelpius – Corey Bechelli
The Supernatural Power – Ma Ja Ka
The Cult: Darling Damselfly – Sammy Shuster & Lexie Diallo with Dave Marley
Herald 1: Kelpius (the band) – Lindsay Hargrave and Luca Farrell
Herald 2: Chartkoff&Monk – Joel Chartkoff and Robert Monk
Ushers – Sebastian & Austin

Yay! Finally some pagan action in Philly.

Joel leads the crowd in song, “The Dream is Nigh” is born.