World Stage 2016 continues its stellar season with the North American premiere of Backstage in Biscuit Land from British writer, artist and activist Jess Thom. Celebrating the creativity and humour of Tourette Syndrome, four 'Relaxed' Performances of Backstage in Biscuit Land will be presented from May 25 to 28 at the Harbourfront Centre Theatre.
Combining storytelling, comedy and puppetry, Backstage in Biscuit Land presents an intimate glimpse into Thom's unique perspective as a performer and woman with Tourette Syndrome. As a result of her tics, Thom says the word "biscuit" 16,000 times a day. She loved the theatre as a child, but the intensity of her tics made it increasingly difficult to attend. After being asked to sit in isolation while attending a theatre performance, Thom discovered the only place in the theatre she wouldn't be asked to leave was the stage. Playful, spontaneous and laugh-out-loud funny, Backstage in Biscuit Land shows first hand that making theatre inclusive makes it better. "At World Stage, everyone is welcome to experience theatre and we look forward to a true exchange of ideas through Backstage in Biscuit Land and other performances," said Artistic Director Tina Rasmussen. "Jess Thom offers an incredibly empowering performance that is refreshing, honest, intelleigent and humourous."
Special discussions will complement these Backstage in Biscuit Land performances (free with ticket purchase):
Since its inaugural season 30 years ago in 1986, World Stage continues to present groundbreaking contemporary performances from around the world. The 2016 season, curated by Artistic Director Tina Rasmussen, includes seven international theatre, dance and multidisciplinary performances from Belgium, Canada, England, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Palestine.
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