September 26, 2006

Drexel University's Department of Performing Arts kicks off the 2nd year of the Mandell Professionals-in-Residence Project with the groundbreaking and award winning theater company New Paradise Laboratories. New Paradise Laboratories will be in residence at Drexel's Mandell Theater from September 26 – October 22, 2006.

New Paradise Laboratories creates shocking, humorous, spiritual, physical and distinctive experimental theatre productions that investigate physical expression, on-stage and in life. Founded in 1996 by Artistic Director Whit MacLaughlin and a company of seven actors, the company has made Philadelphia its home since 1998. During that time, New Paradise Laboratories has created nine world premieres and three Philadelphia Fringe Festival “Spotlight” commissions which have garnered the company an OBIE award, a Barrymore award, and a Pew Charitable Trusts Fellowship in Performance Art.

The Mandell Professionals in Residence Project (MPiRP) brings both renowned and emerging artists to Drexel University to work with students and faculty in curricular and extra-curricular settings. It offers a unique educational resource to the faculty, students and staff at Drexel. Guest artists and professionals from the theater and dance industries will join the department for residencies and workshops throughout the year. Guest artists lecture, lead workshops, teach master classes, and create and present productions. New Paradise Laboratories will be working with students in Humanities, and Visual, Digital and Performing Arts related courses at Drexel, presenting workshops, and working with students on the creation of their new work. These activities will complement the work of Drexel's own faculty in areas such as multi-media, film, theater and playwriting. Students of all backgrounds and interests are encouraged and welcome to participate in any or all aspects of this residency.

For more information about the residency and ways to be involved, contact Nick Anselmo, Director of Mandell Professionals in Residence, at nick.anselmo@drexel.edu or 215-895-1920 or visit the website at www.drexel.edu/mprip.