This year, it’s bringing a unique experience to the stage, André Paiement’s Lavalléville, a play emblematic of Franco-Ontarian theatre that’s celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
With humour, social commentary and Franco-Ontarian pride, this musical deals with a universal yet current theme, tyranny and the fight for freedom. Directed by the multitalented, well-regarded Pier Rodier, a proud Franco-Ontarian, the production features students from different faculties united by a passion for theatre.
Learning to act larger than life
For the novice actors, the path to the stage started with audition. Yes, auditions for a university course! Of the many students from diverse fields who tried their luck, six were chosen, from equally diverse cultural backgrounds. Rodier drew on these diverse backgrounds and accents to work on a cappella singing and get the young cast to understand the historical significance of the play, its topicality and its humour.
During rehearsals, the budding actors discovered a unique mise-en-scène style. The company also experienced how one can really push one’s limits, when a young actor was asked to portray the soul of a female character of a different age, physique and gender. “Lavalléville is more than just a story. It’s a call to action, an invitation to break the chains of doubt and embrace the power of change,” says Rodier.
“Lavalléville is more than just a story. It’s a call to action, an invitation to break the chains of doubt and embrace the power of change.”
Pier Rodier
— Stage director
With his experience in youth theatre and the circus, Rodier asked his actors to go beyond the text. Inspired by the commedia dell’arte, he encouraged them to play “larger than life” characters, while exploring the physical and vocal aspects of theatre. The rigorous work paid off in the evident growth of the company over seven intense weeks.
A Franco-Ontarian director’s vision
Thanks to his years of experience in various disciplines, Rodier brought a new, current vision to this iconic play. His extensive career allowed him to bring a perspective simultaneously light-hearted and serious to his direction. For the students, working under him was a rare chance to immerse themselves in a multidisciplinary approach combining physical theatre, musicality and social commentary.
Lavalléville is more than just a play: it’s a landmark text in Franco-Ontarian culture, an exploration of social struggle and a true celebration of freedom. Not only does the Comédie des Deux Rives production allow youth to develop their artistic skills, but it also offers audiences a commentary on the human condition, served up with humour and a sharp focus.
