Laura and Samara spend their days as non-profit unicorns and fill every spare minute exploring the world of musical theatre as BFFs (that’s Broadway Friends Forever). Follow @bffs613 on X, Instagram and Facebook.
L’écrit (The Written Note) from Ubus Théâtre is a French language show, playing at the National Arts Centre (NAC) until Aug. 3. A story told through puppets between young Célestine and her great aunt as two characters in different stages of life—one formed by their inexperience and the other formed through their depth of experience later in life. We got to connect with Agnès Zacharie, artistic director of Théâtre Ubus to learn more about this upcoming show.
*Answers have been translated from the original French.
L’écrit (The Written Note). Photo: Ubus Théâtre
What originally attracted you to this show and made you want to share it with audiences?
The resilience in people who manage to survive great tragedies. Those who rise despite insurmountable odds and become larger than life. Examples of real life!
What was the inspiration for having this story be told with puppets?
My creations are inspired by people I love. The people who nourish the small story and compose the big one. These “ordinary” people are, in their modesty, extraordinary. Each of their steps on this earth deserves attention. For this show, I was inspired by my mother and my daughter.
L’écrit (The Written Note). Photo: Ubus Théâtre
The characters have some juxtaposition—one begins their journey, the other is more experienced in life. What do you think this dynamic brings to the story?
A wealth of human richness! The confrontation between the sweetness of old age and the impatience of youth touches me deeply. The two are closely linked and go hand-in-hand despite their great difference.
What are you hoping audiences take away from this story?
To know how to see happiness in everything and whatever happens.
L’écrit is in French language only and takes place from July 29 to Aug. 3 at the National Arts Centre. Shows are Monday at 7pm and Tuesday and Wednesday at 2 pm. It runs for approximately 50 minutes with no intermission. Tickets are $8.
