Set in the mid-17th century, the story of Black Violet involves violence, deception, mass-murder even The Plague. But the victims focused on in this story aren’t lords or peasants; they are of the feline persuasion. Black Violet is an ordinary housecat who is forced into the dangers of the outside world when her owner goes missing. This story evolved out of a collaboration made between two unlikely partners: the Chicago band, Fifth House Ensemble and graphic novelist Ezra Claytan Daniels. Ezra Claytan Daniels and Fifth House Ensemble member Adam Marks join Alison Cuddy in the studio. Adam is the ensemble’s director of artistic programming and also plays piano in the group.

Events:
Black Violet unfolds in three separate acts over the next few months.
ACT I: The LEAGUES of DESPAIR
Tuesday, October 6 at 7 p.m. 
Chicago Cultural Center (Cassidy Theater) - FREE
Thursday, October 8 at 8 p.m.
SPACE - $12 General, $8 Students/Seniors

ACT II: The GREAT EXODUS of the TAMED
Monday, February 1, 2010 at 7 p.m. 
Chicago Cultural Center (Cassidy Theater) - FREE
Thursday, February 4, 2010 at 8 p.m.
SPACE - $12 General, $8 Students/Seniors

ACT III: The UN-NATURAL ORDER
Monday, April 5, 2010 at 7 p.m.
Chicago Cultural Center (Cassidy Theater) - FREE
Thursday, April 8, 2010 at 8p.m.
SPACE - $12 General, $8 Students/Seniors

Music Button: Kronos Quartet, “Royal Wedding”, from the CD Terry Riley-The Cusp of Magic, (Nonesuch records)