Benjamin Rexroad is just a bear from Akron.
He also directs and is co-founder of Wandering Aesthetics. Rexroad is giving a civic sermon about the American civic religion—the creed of liberty, equality, and self-government that unite us as U.S. citizens– at Wandering Aesthetics’ “Bigger Than a Breadbox: Akron’s Legends of Tomorrow” on Saturday, November 17.
Describe your legend: In the far future, what will people say about you?
Nothing. Far enough in the future, the universe will collapse and no one will be saying anything.
Realistically: I don’t want to be famous, but I’d like to be known within the fringe theatre community… the kind of people who redefine what theatre can be.
Benjamin Rexroad stroking his beard while thinking of a story to tell at Full Circle Storytelling. (Photo: Wandering Aesthetics)
Who are the legends that influence(d) you as a performer?
I’m not really a performer, so… nobody? As a director: Anne Bogart and SITI Company. I often go back to Bogart’s writing when I’m stuck– creatively and in life.
What is your artistic origin story?
Starting in In 5th grade, I was bullied and got super, super depressed. I eventually made some friends in the theatre community. That changed and probably saved my life… being around people who accepted me for me.
Describe your superhero costume.
Something comfortable and loose-fitting… lately, it’s been loud patterns and colors that clash. I used to wear all black, but [expletive] that, I like being weird. The most important part of my costume, however, is my beard. No one knew who I was until I grew out the beard.
Who is your arch nemesis?
He might not know it, but Number 45. He’s the antithesis of pretty much everything I hold sacred.
Also: depression.
Why a “civic sermon”?
I’ve always been into politics. I’ve also been interested in various religions and spirituality. I considered going to seminary, but I’m an atheist. When the opportunity came to apply for the civic seminary fellowship through Citizen University, I felt like it made sense– this idea of the American civic religion. It feels like I get to fan the flames of democracy.
Should citizens fight for their right to party?
I think the real question is, “why aren’t you making the fight a party?” Let’s put some fun back into American politics. Put the “party” back in “political party”.
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Join Wandering Aesthetics for another rendition of Bigger Than A Breadbox, Akron’s rousing variety show.
“Akron’s Legends of Tomorrow”, the third #AkronBreadbox production, features a diverse array of artistic talent as they explore legends in Akron, from past to present.
This live vaudeville performance explores Akron’s cultural heritage and celebrates those artists who work to preserve it.
Featuring music, comedy, poetry, art (and a few surprises), this variety show has something for everyone!
“Bigger Than a Breadbox: Akron’s Legends of Tomorrow” takes place on Saturday, November 17 at Bricco Prime (4315 Manchester Road, Akron) in Portage Lakes. Tickets are $20 per person or $30 for two and are available at https://www.watheatre.com/boxoffice.
