Centaur Theatre May 5- 7 and May 10– 14, 2016
School violence is an important concern in our society. Sadly, many communities, including Montréal, have been affected. In the media noise of these stories, it is important to remember that real, young lives are affected. Violence does not come from thin air.
Beautiful City Theatre’s “Punk Rock” tells the story of a group of high school students acting out their conflicted emotions during the stress of exam time. The show addresses issues of bullying and understanding how it can develop. The show features music from local punk bands such as The Costanzas, Irish Nails, Mental Fix, and Mooch.
Curtains UP spoke with director Calli Armstrong.
Does this play try to answer the question of why school violence occurs?
I think that is not the author’s intent. It makes us think about what leads up to violence. It shows the consequences about lack of empathy. Empathy is something we can use to improve relationships. But it is not about excusing people from accountability for their actions. It looks at bullying from different sides. If we can come from a place of empathy then we can deal with a situation with less fear.
You are also a mental health professional. How important are the arts in helping kids deal with their stress and emotions?
I am a drama therapist. I think the arts in general are one of the many ways children and adults can express themselves to the world. In creative arts therapy, it is important to have a variety of ways that has to connect to the person and where they are at. In the arts, there are different forms like music, for example, that reflects the client’s needs.
BCT is a process oriented group that is ensemble focused. We use a variety of games and exercises where we can explore power struggle. In rehearsal, we use that method to explore power struggles.
In this show, we have been using neutral masks; masks that don’t show expression. The focus is on the ensemble rather than individual. There are seven scenes each introduced by a punk song. The music is almost a mini scene before the scene. The scene shows the collective emotions of the characters. The masks lend to more physical theatre.
What can audiences expect from the show?
I saw this production in New York as part of the MCC season last year. I found it very thrilling, on the edge of my seat, very disturbing. I think it will be quite moving for Montreal audiences. Our version will be a little bit different than the production in New York. The play deals with school violence. The after show talk back will be an opportunity to reflect on what it is like to witness the show.
There will be a talk-back discussion with the director, cast, and crew after each performance.
“Punk Rock”: presented by Beautiful City Theatre. Written by Simon Stephens. Directed by Calli Armstrong. Show runs May 5-7 and 10-14, 2016 at the Centaur Theatre, 453 St-François-Xavier, Old Montreal. Tickets $35 to $20. Call the box office at 514-288-3161 or go to www.centaurtheatre.com
Beautiful City Theatre is an independent, non-profit group that aims to bring creativity and a sense of community through theatre and engaging artists with inspired ensemble productions. The BCT is based in Montréal.
For more information about Beautiful City Theatre, go to their website: www.beautifulcitytheatre.com
