Erased invites audiences into a surreal post-climate collapse world inside a greeting card factory, where workers are pushed to their limits and forced to meet quotas while creating absurd cards under the control of machinery that defines and erases them. Blending absurdism and dark comedy, this production invites audiences to reflect on the absurdities of late capitalism and our relationship with technology. Experience a thought-provoking, genre-defying exploration of resistance, survival, and the human spirit.

Running from November 20 to November 30, 2024, at Theatre Passe Muraille, this visually striking 11-member physical theatre piece blends absurdism, dark comedy, political theatre, and poetry. It highlights our addiction to production in late capitalism and serves as a powerful call to reflect on the state of our planet and the systems that have entrapped us. Through a surreal marriage of genres, Erased explores how the spark of a soft revolution can turn into a roaring flame of resistance.

The world premiere of Erased is presented by Theatre Passe Muraille, in partnership with Open Heart Surgery Theatre, and produced by Coleen Shirin MacPherson. This production promises to spark important conversations about the future of our planet and the systems that bind us. 

About The Production

  • An Iterative and Evolving Creation: Erased began as a response to capitalism and the culture of consumption, written amidst the forests of France, where inspiration took a unique turn. It premiered in the UK with readings at the Arcola Theatre and Tristan Bates Theatre. It later evolved into a film-play broadcast live through La MaMa Experiments in New York City during the global pandemic. This production represents the latest iteration of a work that continues to grow, shaped by numerous artists and collaborators.
  • International Development and Recognition: Developed at Tarragon Workspace and featured in Theatre Passe Muraille’s Buzz Development series in 2021 and 2023, Erased has captured international attention. It has evolved through contributions from artists in London, New York, and Toronto. The play’s journey from intimate readings to international broadcast highlights its resonance and adaptability.
  • Collaborative Artistic Contributions: The creation of Erased has been supported by a diverse array of talented artists and organizations, including contributions from Susanna Fournier, Mina James, Richard Hansell, and Theatre Gargantua. The Chorus of the Disappeared was developed in collaboration with York University’s Devised Theatre students, making it a truly collaborative effort that brings fresh voices to the stage.

Special Events: The Department of Theatre, Dance, and Performance at York University will lead post-show conversations on November 23rd and 27th. The conversations will feature guest speakers who will engage with the play’s themes, followed by audience discussions. Food will be provided.

Erased – Nov 20 to 30, 2024 – Theatre Passe Muraille, 16 Ryerson Ave, Toronto – Tickets

Theatre Passe Muraille is committed to championing diversity and inclusion in the arts, striving to elevate underrepresented voices through collaborative and innovative theater practices. Their mission is to challenge boundaries and create impactful art that explores the overlooked and the unexpected, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Canada. Based in a historic Toronto building, the theatre focuses on producing and developing unique plays that express a distinctly Canadian narrative.

Open Heart Surgery Theatre was founded in 2014, Open Heart Surgery Theatre is an international, female-led theatre ensemble based in Toronto and London, UK. Led by Parsi-Irish Canadian theatre maker Coleen Shirin MacPherson, the company creates new devised work that is physical, poetic, relevant, and experimental, engaging in cross-cultural collaboration that stretches borders and moves boundaries. The ensemble’s work has toured internationally, including Egypt, the USA, the UK, France, and Poland. Comprised of a diverse mix of performers, including Lecoq-trained theatre makers, Open Heart Surgery Theatre blends live music, media, and dance to create original theatre that opens the heart and speaks to the urgent stories of our time.

Creative Team:

  • Written and Directed by Coleen Shirin MacPherson
  • Producer: Ulla Laidlaw
  • Movement Direction: Alix Sideris
  • Composition and Musical Direction: Amy Nostbakken
  • Sound Design: Richard Feren
  • Set and Lighting Design: Nick Blais
  • Costume Design: Jung A Im

Cast Highlights:

  • Nancy McAlear as Margie
  • Sochi Fried as Grace
  • Rose Tuong as Oliver
  • Ericka Leobrera as René
  • It features an ensemble cast of vibrant performers who bring Erased to life.

Accessibility:
The whole run is Blind Friendly, Captioned, and in a Relaxed Environment.

 

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.