“Science fiction is a tale in the future to talk about the present. A “once will be” in this foreign country that is the future”, writes the author Marie-Claude Verdier, in her note on the program of Seeker. Created in the fall of 2021, winner of the Michel-Tremblay prize, Seeker, running until the end of November in the small room of the Center du Théâtre d’Aujourd’hui, ventures into a genre little frequented by theater artisans: science fiction. Its fans are more accustomed to turning to cinema and TV series to feed their passion for anticipation.
The synopsis is summarized as follows. In the year 2250, at a military base in Colorado, Lomond, a “seeker”, is summoned by the army as part of a special mission. A “seeker” is the name given to him, following a genetic mutation, because he has the ability to see, feel and share the memories of others. He will be interrogated by his ex-wife and will try not to implode in his infinite memories… “Gaffled with one of the most complex enigmas of his career, Lomond fights fiercely to uncover a truth with consequences for all of humanity. »
PHOTO VALERIE PROVIDED, PROVIDED BY THE CENTER DU THÉÂTRE D’AUJOURD’HUI
Seeker offers a beautiful score to actor David Boutin, excellent in the demanding role of Lomond.
Both philosophical and psychological, the one-hour play is precisely directed by Justin Laramée. His direction of actors is also very mastered.
David Boutin is excellent in the demanding role of Lomond. He is ably assisted by Karine Gonthier-Hyndman (who takes over the role played by Madeleine Péloquin, in the creation) who plays his ex-wife with aplomb and accuracy.
PHOTO VALERIE PROVIDED, PROVIDED BY THE CENTER DU THÉÂTRE D’AUJOURD’HUI
The performers evolve in the minimalist decor of Odile Gamache, enveloped by the beautiful light of Martin Labrecque.
The two performers evolve in the minimalist decor of Odile Gamache, enveloped by the marvelous and mysterious light of Martin Labrecque (his lighting forms a scenography in itself) and the futuristic sound environment of Andréa Marsolais-Roy.
With Seeker, Marie-Claude Verdier explores the notions of identity and memory, both intimate and collective. His questions cross space-time and planets, mixing past, present and future. The plot risks losing those who, like us, are not keen on the genre. Note that the text is published by Dramaturges Éditeurs.
Seeker is a small, sober and effective production which illustrates the infinite power of theater to evoke.
Seeker
By Marie-Claude Verdier.
Directed by Justin Laramée.
With David Boutin, Karine Gonthier-Hyndman or Madeleine Péloquin (alternating).
Duration of one hour, without intermission.
At the Center du Théâtre d’Aujourd’hui (Jean-Claude-Germain room), until November 29.