New Writing: An Actor’s Approach 2021 - Showcase of Pool (no water)
In May 2019, eight actors, guided by dramaturg Chan Ping-chiu and movement coach Faye Leong, began an in-depth exploration of "Pool (no water)" by British playwright Mark Ravenhill. Through group experimentation and intensive rehearsals, they explored new textual interpretations and showcased their physical performance methods that June.
As the pandemic lingered into the spring of 2020, the performing arts community, including this group slated to perform "Pool" in Shanghai that September, prepared for an eventual return to theatres. While maintaining social distancing, they held script readings recorded by camera in April 2020. By the fall, with the Shanghai performance cancelled, the group reconvened, refocusing their efforts on transforming "Pool" into online content. They experimented with various camera angles, exploring new possibilities for rehearsing and performing both ensemble and monologue work within the constraints of social distancing. This ultimately culminated in a May 2021 performance, showcasing the results of their persistent, though intermittent, rehearsals and creative problem-solving throughout the previous year.
Date: 7-9/5/2021
Venue: Cattle Depot Theatre
Playwright: Mark Ravenhill (UK)
Showcase Director: Chan Wai-hung
photo: hongnin.