PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
Specializing in early childhood, the Théâtre des Petites Âmes is celebrating its 15th this yeare birthday. For the occasion, the troupe created a show full of surprises: The Little Souls Ball.
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
Like princes and princesses, the young guests and their families are warmly welcomed at the Maison Théâtre, specially decorated for this white ball. Lantern in hand, guides lead them in small groups into cozy spaces to make paper flowers (or any other accessories) to wear for this great celebration.
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
Once dressed in their finest attire, the guests stand up. It’s time to learn a few dance steps before attending the show. To the sound of the marimba, guides, children and parents waltz, spin around, take random steps. Movements that will be very useful to them at the end of the performance when a moment will be devoted to dancing.
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
To design this show which begins gently, at the piano, the creator and director Isabelle Payant was inspired by the journey of the Théâtre des Petites Âmes. Regulars may recognize melodies or elements from past creations. “The spirit of all this is a culmination of 15 years of work for early childhood,” she summarizes in an interview.
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
Accustomed to presenting solos or duets, the Théâtre des Petites Âmes here offers a play for eight performers. “It really reflects the festive, unifying spirit that we want,” underlines Isabelle Payant.
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
How would the director describe the show in which characters, puppets and shadow plays come together? “We stay in what we’ve always done. There is a sensitivity, a poetry, a gentleness. There is humor too,” she replies.
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
Amazing characters follow one another on stage, like this sea creature who sings opera and provokes lots of laughter…
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
…or this strange animal that, like a dog, loves to play ball. “What’s going to happen next?” », says a child in the crowd. Very explosive, the show surprises from minute to minute.
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
Although the room can accommodate around 120 people, the audience is seated very close to the action. “I think it’s essential because the little one doesn’t see a show, he feels it in his whole being. The further we are from a scene, the more there is an intangible thread that crumbles,” believes Isabelle Payant.
PHOTO JOSIE DESMARAIS, THE PRESS
After the show, it’s time for the post-ball. Snacks are served to the children, for their greatest happiness. Want to take part in this party aimed at 3 to 7 year olds? The final performances will take place throughout the weekend, from Friday to Sunday.