The Apocalypse Roadshow hits Chicago Oct. 17 & 19. Don't miss it!
4 hours ago
Get ready for two unforgettable nights of insight and laughter as Athena Aktipis, affectionately known as “the Zombie Professor,” brings her unique blend of science and comedy to Chicago’s iO Theater.
Thursday, Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m., The Armando Experience, iO TheaterAuthor of the best-selling book, A Field Guide to the Apocalypse: A Mostly Serious Guide to Surviving Our Wild Times, Aktipis will make an appearance as the guest-monologist at The Armando Diaz Experience, perhaps proving that in the face of disaster, improvisation and laughter can be powerful tools to help us survive and thrive. Along with researcher Coltan Scrivner, Aktipis shared her insights in the Scientific American article, The evolutionary reasons why we are we are drawn to horror movies and haunted houses.
“This appearance is especially meaningful to me,” said Aktipis. “As a teen and a native Chicagoan, I was a frequent visitor to Chicago’s improv scene.”
"Our cast will take suggestions from Athena’s stories, whether they are personal monologues, references to her work, or moments of insight,” said Gretchen Eng, producer of The Armando and Director of Professional Development and Partnerships at the iO Theater. “This allows us to improvise scenes inspired by Athena’s life and experiences.”
"This show is longform improv at its best; a symbiotic format that thrives on authenticity and collaboration. We can't wait to host Athena,” said Eng.
Books will be available for purchase and signing by the author.
The performance is suitable for teens and adults.
Saturday, Oct. 19, 6 p.m., The Apocalypse Roadshow, iO TheaterPrepare for an electrifying fusion of science, art and humor as Athena Aktipis takes the stage with The Apocalypse Roadshow, an unusual variety show that offers a message of hope and resilience in these uncertain times. Drawing on her best-selling book, A Field Guide to the Apocalypse: A Mostly Serious Guide to Surviving Our Wild Times, and her popular podcast, Zombified: Your Source for Fresh Brains, Aktipis and her troupe deliver an engaging experience that encourages audiences to understand how to thrive amid chaos.Featuring an engaging mix of music, storytelling, improv and comedy, Aktipis and her talented team will share practical survival tips for navigating modern life with curiosity and adventure. Though her approach is often tongue-in-cheek, Aktipis is a dedicated researcher focused on the vital roles that community, cooperation, and curiosity can play in navigating crises. Along with researcher Coltan Scrivner, Aktipis shared her insights in the Scientific American article, The evolutionary reasons why we are we are drawn to horror movies and haunted houses.
"The ability to laugh and connect with others is a powerful tool for surviving and thriving in challenging times,” says Aktipis. Joining her will be Julie Sullivan Brace, singer, songwriter and co-founder of the Picking’ in the Pines Bluegrass and Acoustic Music Festival in Flagstaff, Arizona. Sullivan Brace offers a fresh musical perspective on surviving apocalyptic scenarios—real or metaphorical. The performance is suitable for teens and adults.
What to expect:
Apocalyptic music: Enjoy original tunes by Julie Sullivan-Brace that capture the spirit of survival and adventure.
Improv comedy: Watch the talented comedians at iO Theater bring apocalyptic themes to life with their quick wit and hilarious scenarios.
Survival tips: Aktipis shares practical advice from her field guide, covering everything from surviving disasters, managing stress, finding your Z-team and getting your go-bag ready to go.
Interactive performances: Get ready for spontaneous audience participation, surprise guests and plenty of unexpected twists!
Books will be available for purchase and signing by the author.
About The Apocalypse RoadshowThe Apocalypse Roadshow is led by Athena Aktipis, an evolutionary psychologist and author. She aims to address surviving in apocalyptic times through humor, science and cooperation. The show brings together a diverse team of scientists, artists, comedians and experts to explore how humans can navigate existential crises like pandemics and climate change by leaning into cooperation and creativity. The performances are inspired by Aktipis’ book, A Field Guide to the Apocalypse: A Mostly Serious Guide to Surviving Our Wild Times,which draws on evolutionary theory and game theory to offer practical and often humorous survival strategies for these wild times. The roadshow has journeyed along iconic Route 66, stopping in Albuquerque, Flagstaff, Phoenix and Los Angeles. Each performance brings together local talent and community members for an unforgettable experience. For more information, visit The Apocalypse Roadshow.
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