14 performers, dressed only in projected images and the texture of light, take the stage in a new work from The Living Canvas this summer at National Pastime Theater in Chicago.

The Living Canvas: Rain runs Fridays and Saturdays July 1 through August 20 at 10pm.

Directed by Gaby Labotka, produced by Pete Guither

For 10 years, The Living Canvas has been performing shows using naked actors as the expressive canvas for projected images, telling compelling stories while promoting body acceptance and showcasing the beauty of the human body in all its shapes and forms.

"The Living Canvas: Rain" is the eighth show in Chicago.  This production deals with the fundamental connection between the human body and the natural world -- the pure and essential relationship between water and flesh.  The story, written by Bill Daniel, takes us to a world where rain has been forgotten, but must be found again to nourish us in more ways than one.  The story is told through limited text and through movement created by director Gaby Labotka and the cast, plus a soundscape from Isaac Mandel.  Artistic Director Pete Guither adds the texture through his unique approach of digital projections as the source of light, eliminating the need for costumes altogether.

Spectacle is part of all Living Canvas productions.  Past shows have been described as akin to a laser-light show in their visual appeal.  The shows are also physically strenuous, involving extensive movement on scaffolding.  Another important element is humor.  "We have to be able to laugh at ourselves," says Guither "especially when we're naked."  Each Living Canvas show works to break down the conditioned barrier between audience and naked performer, so they feel comfortable laughing and getting past the nervousness of being around nudity.  Each show also incorporates an opportunity for adventurous audience members to see what it's like to be onstage naked in the projections, as well as a Q and A with the cast and creative team.

"The Living Canvas: Rain" is part of the Naked July Festival at National Pastime Theatre.  For more information and tickets, visit NakedJuly.com.

For more information about The Living Canvas and past productions and photography, visit TheLivingCanvas.com.