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77.
MAT PIECE.
Original illustrated holograph manuscript, c. 1968-69. Consists of cut-outs pasted on to four separate sheets of paper, each sheet measuring 30x23cm., as published in IT #58 (London: June 13, 1969). Printer's instructions affixed to verso of each sheet.
The 'Mat Piece', first developed by The Living Theatre in Cefalù, Sicily in Spring 1968 (so titled because it was performed there on a straw mattress), formed the 'Rite of Opposite Forces' part of the sixth Rung of 'Paradise Now' and lasted about twelve minutes. Each actor was expected to prepare for it by studying anarchist philosophy and various spiritual or mystical teachings, and this manuscript by Living Theatre actor Karen Weiss would appear to be an example of such preparation.
Together with:
i) three typewritten texts (on 'The Living Theatre', 'Antigone' and 'Mysteries & Smaller Pieces'), probably by Jack Henry Moore, intended to coincide with the company's visit to London. Each typed on the back of a fragment of an Arts Lab programme for May/June 1969;
ii) a single sheet featuring a handwritten list of 11 films about or with The Living Theatre, along with the addresses of filmmaker Daniel Fahri in Switzerland and writer/critic Franco Quadri in Italy. Probably made for a film programme at the Arts Lab.
