Canada's Largest Ten-Minute Play Festival InspiraTO
By: Rebecca Russo May. 25, 2017
"We had no idea, back in July, when we decided on this year's theme of 'Grow Up' just how relevant the topic would be," says Dominik Loncar, Artistic Director of Theatre InspiraTO, producers of Canada's largest ten-minute play festival.
The InspiraTO festival kicks off its 12th season on June 1 and will showcase the work of 24 writers from across the globe. The plays, which made the very competitive cut out of over 450 submissions, address what it means to 'grow up' and will take over Toronto's historic Alumnae Theatre over nine days.
Audiences will experience what is akin to a full length show, with six plays performed over an hour. Quick set changes are made possible via two unique approaches: The 'Red' and 'Blue' mainstage shows are supported by visually stunning backdrop projections in which InspiraTO is known for while the more intimate 'Black' and 'White' shows are held across different rooms within the theatre, creating a site specific experience. Each show also has a sub-theme. For example, all the redShow plays deal with obsession (see a full breakdown on page 2).
Audiences love the format because they get to experience a broad range of theatre: from absurd comedies to deeply disturbing topics and everything in between. After each show, you can feel the buzz as audiences engage in heated discussions about their favourite plays. They also have the opportunity to vote for their top three choices with winners announced at the finale awards ceremony.
"The festival showcases stories that are relevant and reflect the world around us with all the truths, half truths and fabrications that tug at the absurdity and mystery of being human," says Dominik. "Ultimately, growing up is a paradoxical question: how much of our childlike wonder do we sacrifice for the responsibilities that adulthood demands?"
Theatre InspiraTO is dedicated to the development of local talent with over 100 artists participating in the festival each season. This year a new program, The Director's Toolbox, allows 16 directors to receive coaching and feedback from Andreja Kovac, Theatre InspiraTO's lead director.
12TH ANNUAL INSPIRATO 10-MINUTE PLAY FESTIVAL
Alumnae Theatre, Mainstage, Studio and Trinity spaces
June 1-10, 2017
Tickets: $22; Festival Pass: $70 (four shows)
Facebook: theatreinspirato
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