Oct 29 Why can a Québec director stage the creation of The Monkey King?
On Monkey King is a show inspired by one of the four best-known masterpieces of Chinese literature, an iconic work that brings together four major Chinese performing arts practices, three of which date back over 2000 years. This play will be presented for the first time on a Quebec stage in a French version, with a unique fusion of tradition and modernity.
Artistic direction for this adaptation has been entrusted to Robert, a Quebec director with a fascinating background. Robert was chosen not only for his ability to understand the tastes of Quebec audiences but also for his deep passion and unique skills in bringing this rich and singular artistic universe to light.
Passion for traditional Chinese arts
Robert has long admired Chinese traditions, particularly Beijing opera, China's most popular traditional theatre. In 2007, he saw the traditional Beijing opera version of the Monkey King. It was a revelation for him: the encounter inspired the dream of bringing this theatrical gem to Quebec through great literature, reinterpreting it for a local audience.
Technical skills
Robert is a professor of acting and directing at Concordia University. One of his areas of expertise lies in his ability to update artistic traditions while respecting them. His interest in Beijing opera led him to study the practice at the National School of Chinese Operas in Beijing, making him one of the few teachers in Quebec to master Western theatre techniques and solidly understand Chinese opera.
Historique et engagement dans le théâtre interculturel
In 2008, while head of Concordia University's theatre department, Robert introduced Beijing opera classes, enabling his Quebec students to discover and immerse themselves in this art form. Since then, he has staged several plays that successfully merge Western theatre with this Chinese practice, building cultural bridges between East and West.
A cosmopolitan approach for a unique show
Bold and rigorous, Robert continues pushing his research and quest for excellence. Today, with his respect for tradition and open-mindedness, he has assembled a cosmopolitan team of 18 artists and creators, from five different nationalities, to offer spectators a unique experience of The Monkey King. A celebration of cultures and the living arts, Robert's pioneering work promises to captivate audiences.
