Nakai Theatre Ensemble: The Voice of the North
The Nakai Theatre Ensemble is the only member of the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres north of the 60th parallel. It stages stories of the region, allowing the voice of the North to speak and distinguish itself from classical theatre. Its aims are as far-reaching as the territory it serves.
Over the next 4 years, with the Council's support, the company will develop a creative method that is unique to Nakai Theatre.
The Nakai method refines a script through improvisation workshops and performances, integrating the sets into the acting from the first reading.
This method was used to create the play, Carnaval, which was co-produced with Gwaandak Theatre.
“While I remain responsible for the text in this new process, I see this as a much different approach. I am much more a recorder and synthesizer of many different creative energies than the sole creative source. I see this being a process more of composition than of playwriting” (Mitch Miyagawa, playwright).
Inspired by the approach taken by Robert Lepage (RSVP Cycles) and Anne Bogart (Viewpoints), the Nakai method is unique in that it anchors each play within the Northern landscape, and focusses on non-traditional locales. For example, the presentation of Carnaval took place in the middle of the Raven Recycling Yard.
These new plays are filled with images, myths and music, and they resonate powerfully with audiences.