'MOMIX: Alchemia' to create fantasy world live on stage Wednesday

Audience members will be transported from their everyday lives into a fantasy world when "MOMIX: Alchemia" explodes off the Bedell Performance Hall stage at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday.

With a dash of Harry Potter charm, "MOMIX: Alchemia" is a magical ride filled with thrills, humor and illusion where IMAX meets the human form.

The performance takes its name from the word "alchemy" -- to create something valuable by combining common elements. It is a blend of physical theater, circus, athleticism and comedy, creating a fantasy world through its use of magical lighting and imagery in an endless search for a different reality, according to a Southeast news release.

"This is one of those 'you've-gotta-see-it-to-believe-it' shows. The nature of the performance reminds me of the magic and fantasy of movies like 'Harry Potter' or 'Lord of the Rings,'" River Campus assistant director Bob Cerchio said in the release. "As the lights come up, you're not exactly sure what you're seeing. Odd shapes and movements seem unworldly until, finally, you realize you're looking at humans and odd-shaped set pieces, moving in an almost out-of-this-world manner. If UFOs ever do land here, they may look a lot like MOMIX!"

MOMIX is a company of dancer-illusionists under the direction of Moses Pendleton, one of the original founders of Pilobolus. He created this new work for the circus artists of MOMIX, the release states. It's all about the art of alchemy, and the alchemy of art -- a multimedia spectacle full of invention, beauty, sensuality and humor. The show uses athletic movement, music, light, humor, shadow, outrageous costumes, inventive props and talent to conjure up a world of surrealistic images and create an entertaining multimedia experience.

MOMIX has to more than 20 countries and has been featured on stage, screen and television. The company has performed throughout the United States, Canada, Spain, Greece, Italy, France, Germany, Russia, Denmark, England, Austria, Ireland, Holland, Argentina, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore and Australia, according to the release. The group is based in Washington, Connecticut.

Tickets, which range from $29 to $39, may be purchased by visiting the River Campus box office at 518 S. Fountain St. in Cape Girardeau, calling (573) 651-2265 or online at RiverCampusEvents.com.

Pertinent address:

518 S. Fountain St., Cape Girardeau, Mo.