As the the artistic founding director of inkBoat physical theatre and dance company, Shinichi has performed throughout North America, Europe and Japan in theaters and site specific locations. We are beyond excited to have him co-directing this project! Here are some of his thoughts about working with We.
Describe your experience of this collaborative process. How is it similar or different from past projects/ experiences?
Shinichi: From one perspective, it’s a usual collaboration in that we must let go of outcome... because anything that any of us might preconceive will not fit how others, operating from a different paradigm, approach material. So, the process requires listening. In the best of worlds, we create a hybrid performance that takes the best from all concerned.
Photo: Lauren Matley
What is new (or so old it’s new) in this process?
Shinichi: I have not been an “actor” or memorized lines or worked with a text script since 1994. That performance, a Tadashi Suzuki version of “Trojan Women,” was performed at NOHspace in San Francisco, directed by Yukihiro Goto. I played a warrior, wielding a sword.
I have not directed traditional actors since 1991. At that time, I was the founder and director of an experimental, visual and text based theater company called “Vox Theater.” The set designer of that time, Frank Lee, still works with me on inkBoat productions.
Check back to learn more about our other collaborators and see Shinichi live in our upcoming production of BEOWULF March 18-April 16
Tickets on sale now! http://www.weplayers.org/beowulf-2017
