The Company was formed
as a not-for-profit artistic collaborative to research
and explore the possible application of mythic and symbolic
theatre traditions, such as Greek Tragedy, Japanese
Noh and Ta'ziyeh, to productions of the work of William
Shakespeare.
The company considers itself international
as it continually moves to different European countries,
seeking a new ensemble cast for each season of productions.
Previous productions have included actors and actresses
from Australia, Belarus, Denmark, England, Finland,
France, Germany, Greece, Iran, Ireland, Korea, Norway,
Poland, Scotland and the US.
From 2003-2005 the company was based in Oslo;
from 2005-2006 in Ireland; from June 2006-February 2007 in
Rome. From June 2007, the Company will be based in Edinburgh.
The company's performance style is a a purer
and more ritualistic presentation of theatre. Stripped of
unnecessary stage decoration and adornment, every attempt
is made to refine the play to its purest and most elegant
form of lighting, music, costumes and stage design in order
to reveal the raw, dynamic myth beneath and give it life and
breath on the stage.
The company's minimalist approach is designed
to transcend cultural and social boundaries, breaking through
standard contemporary political and historical interpretations,
in order to present dramas that become more universal and
eternal. Rather than forcing a contemporary relevance on its
productions - whether by costumes or set design - the company
deliberately eschews all attempts to force the world of the
plays to conform to, or obey, the world we know and live in.
Human loneliness, the mystery of existence,
the necessary and vital sacrifice, the semi-divinity of man,
the relationship of man to his gods, the purpose of truth,
the eternal conflict between good and evil, fate and will,
and (above all else in the work of Shakespeare) the redeeming
power of love - these themes are the very foundations of every
company production.
Such productions are not a mere form of entertainment
intended to deceive and beguile the audience, but a ritual
at which the audience are included as participants.
|
|
