To describe something as simultaneously silent and outspoken seems an oxymoron, but that's what best defines the Tony Award-winning SF Mime Troupe. Now celebrating 50 years of performance art, "Engagement, Commitment and Fresh Air" at YBCA features archival photographs and video, musical recordings, props, costumes, scripts and other memorabilia documenting the company's colorful history. On January 15, check out Don Lenzer's look at the first decade of the company's shenanigans in the film Have You Heard of the San Francisco Mime Troupe?. The documentary highlights rough beginnings—from street performances to setting up "stage" in the city's parks and a controversial 1966 production that earned the troupe both wide notoriety and fame. The director will be on hand for a Q&A after the screening.

The exhibit runs now through January 31 and is free and open to the public. YBCA Room for Big Ideas and Novellus Theater Lobby, 701 Mission St., 415-978-2787.