Risk, play, and freedom: Théâtre la Seizième’s micro-residency program supports Francophone artists
Francophone and Francophile artists with theatre-based practices benefitted from creative experimentation
Ghislaine Doté took part Théâtre la Seizième’s micro-residency program this past spring. Photo by Gaëtan Nerincx
As the main French-language professional-theatre company in British Columbia, Théâtre la Seizième contributes to the richness and diversity of the performing arts through new play development, production, presentation, and touring in French. It’s all to reflect the very best of Francophone performing arts and unite diverse audiences.
In the face of the pandemic, the organization developed a new artistic micro-residency program this past spring as part of its very mission. The goal was to help Francophone and Francophile theatre-based artists develop projects in the early stages, allowing them to experiment in a creative context without the pressure of results or product at the end of the residency.
Following a call for applications, Théâtre la Seizième selected five projects: two tales, a dance performance, a theatrical concert, and a psychological thriller.
Ghislaine Doté, Thérèse Champagne, Anaïs Pellin, Little Fish Productions Collective’s Sophie Brassard and Jenna Kraychy, and the artistic team of Cory Haas and Siona Gareau-Brennan intertwined disciplines in their respective projects, to fantastic effect.
By having the artistic freedom to try out new techniques, take risks, play, and innovate, the artists ended up acquiring a deeper understanding of their craft—and of themselves.
The micro-residencies speak to La Seizième’s unwavering support of the theatre community, especially during the pandemic. when it was needed most.
To see videos from each residency and learn more about the projects and the ensuing achievements, see Theatre La Seizième.
This post was sponsored by Théâtre la Seizième.