Automata Presents John P. Hogan’s Fright Privilege

By Luke Martin

On Saturday, Oct. 31 and Sunday, Nov. 1, Automata will host CalArts alum John P. Hogan’s (Art/IM MFA 06) “Fright Privilege,” an immersive, experimental theatre Haunted (Open) House Tour that satirically plays on the fears of neurotic city dwellers and hipsters.

Hogan, the School of Art’s gallery and studio manager, has gained reputation as an LA-based artist interested in interdisciplinary work. His portfolio is built from a DIY ethos inspired by underground comics, Community Theater, karaoke and garage rock. His works generally seek to combine the experimentalism associated with the historical avant-garde and elements of folk and counter-culture, posing questions about cultural valuation and authority.

In Fright Privilege, Hogan will be presenting the viewer (or, rather, participants) with a multimedia tour through a Haunted House that is “on the market.” Led by a “real estate” agent, participants will be guided through “a horror show of neurotic fears plaguing progressive-minded urbanites,” including the specter of Decreased Property Values Due To Neighborhood Disrepair, falling victim to Unfair Characterizations On The Internet, losing the White Demographic Majority, consuming Genetically Modified Vegetables, and literally confronting an angry and articulate Displaced Former Tenant. The cast includes, among others, CalArts alumni Jason Underhill (BFA 05) and Trulee Hall (MFA 06).

Fright Privilege takes places in half-hour tours at 7 pm, 8 pm and 9 pm on Oct. 31 and 5 pm, 6 pm and 7 pm on Nov. 1. Tickets cost $10 and can be purchased in advanced online or are available at the door.