Annual theatre production at La Clairière (Chamby-sur-Montreux)

 

Since 2023, in collaboration with Tamara Lysek (Cie Porte-Bagages), we have been supporting the creative process behind a theatre production at La Clairière in Chamby-sur-Montreux (Switzerland), to mark the St John’s Day celebrations. For nearly two months, we co-create an original play with the young people, from conceptualisation through to staging, including the writing of the script. In April, on the first day of this period, there is, so to speak, nothing – or rather, everything – in potential. There are living bodies gathered in the same space, and that is indeed the essence of theatre. Our vision of theatre is therefore based on the premise that creation is an organic process that mirrors life and its many forms.

 

There are undeniably steps to be taken to reveal oneself on stage in all one’s vulnerability. These steps take shape day by day within the working framework we forge together. For trust cannot be commanded; it must be woven. In April, long before we think about the end result, we focus on the group and how to approach collective work. Not everyone has the same desires, passions, languages or experiences – to name but a few aspects of diversity.

 

Our approach, inspired by the Lecoq method, invites us to regard the sensitive body as the very source from which poetry flows. Everything is therefore already there; all that remains is to add a few ingredients, to sense the collective dynamics and individual characteristics, and to discern the connections and moments of grace.