L’ÉCHO DE L’ÉCUME/ECHOING CREST: STILL ECHOES…
L’ÉCHO DE L’ÉCUME/ECHOING CREST (Co Production- Les Chemins Errant & Théâtre Motus: Québec)
We arrived at the theatre and into the inviting set of ECHOING CREST just in time but also right as Julu was falling asleep… but as soon as the show began with the gorgeous singing and harp of performer, co-creator and sound designer, Édith Beauséjour, Julu woke popping right out of the carrier to see where this sweet sound was coming from.
Speaking of sweet, we were next to an older wee one (perhaps 6-7yrs old) and once Julu was sitting on my lap, this new friend was intent on sharing their ‘show cat’ they whispered (a weighted soft touch toy that I imagine helps kiddos ground and keep focused on the performance- another brilliant touch!). Then I was also subtly receiving cups of water from AD Lynda Hill, who knew I had been rushing in the heat with Julu which kept me happily hydrated- however as the Fest furthered, I realized having accessible water and snacks is an intrinsic part of their family focused planning!
Back to the show: it was a fun exploration of water, creatures of the deep, the ancient ancestral art of sailing and fishing as a way of life for many folx today- with soundscapes of sea shanties and real time painting on the foresail of the mast. The images that stayed with me were of the storm scene; how creatively yet with gravitas the drowning was expressed and then the relief of finding safety back onto the ship and into a soothing embrace!
I was yearning for deeper character development and felt there were many opportunities for fixed points during comedic moments especially earlier when the two characters: one land bound and the other of the water, were discovering each other. Yet Julu’s attention was steady, enjoying the lights and sounds and as we nursed in the front row (a first for us during a show) verging sleep yet again- during the final moment of a chanson en duet, Julu added their voice to make it a trio before finally fell asleep. What wondrous dreams must have ensued!
SUZANNE ROBERTS SMITH is a critically acclaimed actor, director, theatre maker and also an artist-educator, percussionista and first time mamãe. You can check out some of her work here. With bebê Julu in tow, Suzanne is currently directing INFLUENCED– a solo bouffon show starring Samantha Chaulk as well as the THEHOUSE OF MAGIC a new play by Chiamaka Glory for Shakespeare in Action’s YOUNG CREATOR’S THEATRE PROJECT. Along side of Maria Clara de Sena and ensemble, a pregnant Suzanne co created ORIXÁS: Alive & Well & Living in TO thanks to the last year’s STROMBERGS FAMILY REALIZATION FUND via NIGHTWOOD THEATRE. This year, they are recipients of several recommender creator grants supporting the continuation and development of this one of a kind world premiere powerhouse piece. Suzanne is grateful to all pioneering parents and theatre companies who insist on creating inclusive accessible artistic spaces where all folx and little ones are most welcome. Here’s to this movement gaining momentum everywhere!