Punchdrunk

The history of theatre throughout the world includes countless  methods of communication and presentation. Every era in each nation has used its own style to perform theatrical expressions that are meaningful to their people. But theatre also evolves over time. So in a world where companies like Cirque du Soleil uses technology to captivate their audiences with complex entertainment, where can we go next?

One answer is Punchdrunk. This British theatre company takes over old, abandoned buildings, and turns them into a story. Using only the electricity and the capacity of the building itself, the goal is to create an interactive performance that takes place throughout and is different for each individual. The audience members wear masks, but are welcome to interact with the props, furniture, etc. Separated from anyone you might know, you are left to follow the characters you want and understand the events you witness. Everybody sees a different show and has their own 2 hour performance. Ultimately, though, Punchdrunk returns the building to its original state so that no trace is left of the experiences had its rooms.

The style of theatre that Punchdrunk has created intrigued me from the moment I entered their utterly confusing website and continues to do so everyday as I discover new information about them daily. But the actors themselves are what interest me the most about such a complex style of performance. Each and every one of them is in character throughout the entire show, discovering what happens to them when they leave the stage in a traditional theatre setting. Although the idea of creating an entire show around your character is necessary in Punchdrunk's performances, it is really necessary for all actors.

I called on this tactic constantly throughout the process of piecing together my character, Prudy Pingleton in our production of HAIRSPRAY. I was not on stage for the majority of the production, particularly in Act 1, and so I had to figure out exactly what was happening to Prudy off of the stage. Why does she treat her daughter like a baby? What happened to her husband? How does she learn that Penny has been on North Avenue? The list of questions goes on and on but the possible answers are endless. This was one of the most exciting aspects of participating in a production for me and is what makes me so interested in Punchdrunk. Imagine if all of the stories and character developments you have spent weeks brainstorming, could be seen by the audience and add to the story. As both actor and spectator, I can't think of any other kind of performance that could bring you closer to understanding the character than this.

~ Julie