How far should you go to defend your ideas? With intelligence, Jean-Philippe Baril Guérard poses this problem You’re an animal Ascent to the Théâtre de Quat’Sous.
The playwright and novelist had the genius to envision a Quebecois Charles Darwin publishing his shocking book On the Origin of Species in Montreal in 2002. His work shook the university community and caused it a lot of misadventures. Berated by some, misunderstood by the media that distorts his words, or praised by racist citizens, this poor Darwin finds himself in the heart of a storm that turns his life into hell.
In the form of mock documentary theatre, this play relies heavily on parody and humor to amuse audiences. Well-known public affairs programs in Québec are mostly the subject of sympathetic imitations.
Lots of rhythm
Patrice Dubois’ staging is creative and dynamic. He uses various media to reflect the media whirlwind in which Darwin, played by Lyndz Dantiste, immersed himself. He relies on video projections showing fictitious interviews as well as others imitating TikTok.
Jean-Philippe Baril Guérard also appears on this show. He plays the one who meets Darwin and his relatives to make a documentary theater play work. The author is surrounded by a solid cast consisting of Isabeau Blanche, Laurence Dauphinais, Harry Standjofski and Phara Thibault.
The strength of this proposal lies in having imagined how this book on the theory of evolution and natural selection would be received today. Even if they are caricatured to loosen up, these reactions remain plausible. They shed light on the distortion of facts, the role of the media, the limits of scientific popularization and the understanding of citizens who take a stance without having read the work. However, due to this tone, some more serious moments lose intensity.
This show also puts its finger on the adaptability of species and their chances of surviving when they fail to change, an attitude that makes you ponder the fate of Quebec society. Shaking up outdated ideas with originality and intelligence, this play certainly manages to find its place in the Montreal theatrical jungle.
► You’re an animal will be presented at the Théâtre de Quat’Sous until February 11th
You’re an animal ★★★★★
A play by Jean-Philippe Baril Guérard.
With Jean-Philippe Baril Guérard, Isabeau Blanche, Laurence Dauphinais, Harry Standjofski and Phara Thibault