But Of Mind…

Inspired by the first season of The Twilight Zone (1959), But Of Mind places ordinary people into extraordinary, often unsettling situations—unfolding live, unscripted, and in the style of the golden age of television. Each performance blends supernatural elements, social commentary, and a touch of existential irony, echoing Rod Serling’s trademark storytelling while offering a modern, socially aware lens.

The title comes from a line in Rod Serling’s iconic opening narration to The Twilight Zone:

“You’re traveling through another dimension, a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind.”

This phrase captures the show’s ethos: psychological depth, the uncanny, and the sense that what unfolds onstage is both familiar and otherworldly.

Rather than parodying the original series, the ensemble embraces the aesthetics and drama of the era while consciously addressing the social issues often left unchallenged in 1950s television. The result is a series of improvised “episodes” that honour Serling’s fascination with fate, morality, and poetic justice—while speaking directly to contemporary audiences.

Origins of the Show

But Of Mind was created by Eric Caldwell, who originally developed it as a festival format, inviting local guest performers to join him onstage. In 2022, at a festival in the United States, Caldwell invited Diana Brown, Kelly Chambers, and Dan Wilson to perform with him. The chemistry was immediate, and the quartet has performed as the core ensemble ever since—occasionally bringing in guest artists for special editions.

The show has appeared at festivals across the United States, including:

• Rise Comedy Festival (Denver)

• San Francisco Improv Festival

• The Dramatic Improv Festival (Chicago)

New adventures are coming for But of Mind in 2026…