Mission Statement
Founded in 2003, The Chocolate Factory is a 5,000 square foot multi arts facility located in Long Island City, Queens. The Chocolate Factory supports three distinct performance programs: [1] the creation of new work by Artistic Director Brian Rogers and his collaborators; [2] a curated Visiting Artist Program of dance, theater, music and multimedia performances; and [3] an ongoing series of exhibitions in our storefront gallery space.
Description
[1] Creation of New Work
The Chocolate Factory's performances typically begin with a large-scale social or political question. During an extended period of collaboration (between director, playwright, designers, choreographer, composer, videographer, and performers) lasting 12 months or more, a theatrical performance is developed which attacks that question - using movement, music, video and text - from as many disparate points of view as possible. The result is a collage of interweaving stories and scenarios which emphasize alternative or unpopular viewpoints, and which do not attempt to answer the question at hand so much as they provide a comprehensive illustration of that question, seen from many angles. Each piece is given numerous public showings in various stages of development prior to its official opening at The Chocolate Factory.
[2] Visiting Artist Program
In addition to its own work, The Chocolate Factory curates and presents an ongoing Visiting Artist Program. For approximately 25 weeks each year, artists chosen by Artistic Director Brian Rogers are given dedicated access to our performance space and technical equipment for rehearsals and performances; receive artistic and administrative support, including marketing and press assistance; and share in the box office proceeds. The Visiting Artist Program supports work at all stages of development, in a wide range of disciplines including theater, music, dance, and multimedia.
[3] Gallery
In conjunction with its performance schedule, The Chocolate Factory hosts an ongoing series of visual art exhibitions in its storefront gallery space. Emphasizing the work of Queens-based artists, the gallery hosts 6-8 exhibitions per year in a wide range of disciplines including painting, photography, installation, sound art and new media.
