Your overall theatre experience is expanded with art exhibits in our lobby gallery. Be sure to check out the beautiful work of these visual artists on your next trip to Next Act.
Curator James Toth creates a unique collection of works to complement each Next Act production.
MMA – FIGHTS FOR REAL!
The photographs of Coree Coppinger
September 11 – October 6, 2024
Curated by James Toth
Parallel to the physically challenging, yet contrived world of professional wrestling is the very real world of the physically dangerous, and extremely competitive Mixed Martial Arts, where participants train together in comaraderie and then battle against competitors in brutal cage matches where they leave it all on the mat. It is into this world that local, international award winning artist/photographer Coree Coppinger was able to embed herself and capture an intimate portrait of the sport that I am honored to share.
Shot in the early-digital era, armed with only a basic 50mm film camera and an extra telephoto lens, she approached her subject with an artistic eye. Rather than focusing on the violence and inherent brutality of the fights, her photos capture the intense determination of every fighter and the struggle for dominance in every match.
“I had to blend into their world, to anticipate the rhythm of the fight. I learned quickly that a flash could disrupt the meticulous choreography, risking not only the spirit of the sport but also the safety of its warriors. I had to learn and master the delicate art of capturing the moment without interrupting the flow. I needed to get in close, smell the sweat, feel the breath synchronizing with the struggles unfolding into energy. I discovered not just a fighting sport, but a dance—an art form composed of powerful body expressions and raw emotion. Each fighter told a story, revealing the beauty of technique and the profound depth of human connection.“
Coree Coppinger
Few of us will find our way into this world. I thank Coree for taking the leap. Her powerful images humanize her subjects and defy our stereotypes.
James Toth
Volunteer Gallery Curator
Exhibit Hours
The art exhibit opens Wednesday, September 11, and is open to the public Monday through Friday, noon to 5 pm, and prior to the start of any performance.
Additional Information
About The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity
James Toth is a retired art educator, now in his tenth season as Next Act’s volunteer gallery curator. Since the 2014-15 season, Jim has been curating and installing art exhibits for Next Act’s lobby gallery. Drawing on his connections as an artist and retired art educator, he has brought in a wide variety of artists whose work complements our productions and enriches our patrons’ theatre experiences. Jim is especially pleased when the art and the play seem to have been meant for each other, as with ARTERYink’s organ-oriented designs and the heart transplant theme of Sean Grennan’s THE TIN WOMAN. Before retiring, Jim had a two-career history, first as an Art Teacher and K-12 Art Coordinator for the South Milwaukee School District and then as the Director of Exhibits for the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum. In addition to his volunteer work for Next Act, he serves on the board for the Milwaukee Area Teachers of Art and as President of the south side community choir Cantare Chorale. He is also an artist whose carved cement sculptures have been in numerous group shows over the years, most recently at MIAD this September. Jim and his wife Karen are long-time residents of Bay View.