LOCAL FEATURE CREDIT: CAT EVANS CREDIT: CAT EVANS Goerlich worked for free, along with all other willing bodies that tirelessly pieced everything together until Chaos Bloom opened as the unique space it is today. “The more time I spent here, the more Justin started to see how I could change things on every level,” said Goerlich. With nothing but Additionally, the ongoing pandemic has necessitated a time, amidst a pandemic standstill, Goerlich began organizing finances while shows began happening outside throughout the summer as a sort of preamble to the official opening of the building itself. Improv shows were a roaring success, initially being held in an alley down the block, each night filled with eager observers fresh off the heels of the first COVID lockdown. As a result of her hard work, Goerlich became a co-owner. Two more owners were also included to collaborate and build something new. “We put our very specific skillsets together in order to build what it has become. It’s like a lowgrade Meow Wolf in here,” said Goerlich. Speaking on the impact of COVID and the success of the theater, Goerlich expressed gratitude toward the time that the pandemic provided. “I used the time to organize everything, and we’ve got to a place where it’s a really oiled, maintained machine, and we keep it up.” She is also grateful for the vaccine mandates, as it they have helped to relieve health concerns about a smaller space filled with unfamiliar bodies. “Now I know that when people walk in here, they’re vaccinated. Now I know that everyone will be safe.” need for this sort of entertainment. “I think we have stifled ourselves from laughing because of all these issues going on,” said Goerlich, “We need that release. For me, I have to have that outlet. We all need that outlet.” Most people discover Chaos Bloom Theatre by word of mouth. “We have people in the neighborhood coming in all the time. You rarely see an improviser in the audience, it’s always just random people. Then people become regulars, and they keep coming back and bringing friends.” Every week there are different shows and classes. “Relationsh*t” is a flagship show where the Chaos Bloom players interview someone from the audience about a weird or awkward date that they’ve been on. “Last night we had to turn people away because we were so packed,” said Goerlich. “Every show the audience is engaged with the performers, the space is intimate and immediate and welcoming to all. It’s nice to see people come back out again.” The theater is constantly working toward inclusivity, diversity, and bringing new people in. As Goerlich explained, “We are in schools, we are outside. We are trying to get people on stage where people can be watching and say, ‘Oh, that person is like me.’ There is much emphasis on what voices you can and cannot use as a performer, fine lines as to what is appropriate and what is not. and those expectations do not waver. We’ve got to show people we can do this, and then do it better.” The performers and teachers are nationally trained, ranging from New York to LA, to Chicago – each hub represented. “The improv, the comedy, the sketch – it’s all high level. My curriculum provides the tools for someone to step up and play at high levels,” said Goerlich. This up-and-coming theater has only just begun. The vibe of the room when sitting amongst peers engaging in laughter and relatability is unmatched. For more information on the theater, show times, class scheduling and pricing, visit chaosbloom.com. ■ CREDIT: CAT EVANS CREDIT: CAT EVANS CREDIT: CAT EVANS January 2022 DENVER VOICE 7
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