Stage Door News

Toronto: “Les Zinspiré.e.s: Infiniment éveillé.e.s” runs November 28-December 13

Monday, November 4, 2019

Théâtre français de Toronto is very pleased to present the eighth edition of its hit series LES ZINSPIRÉ.E.S, the winner of two Dora awards this past summer (Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble and Outstanding Direction, Theatre for Young Audiences). Directed by Krystel Descary, this fall’s latest edition, Les Zinspiré.e.s : Infinitely Awake, describes a world that must become exactly that – infinitely awake. This much-anticipated voice of a new generation will be presented at the Berkeley Street Theatre from November 28 to December 13, 2019 (student matinees), with English surtitles for the general public on December 4th and 7th.  TfT has already added extended the run by adding a third general public performance on December 12th at 8 p.m., also with English surtitles.

The LES ZINSPIRÉ.E.S project gives a voice to the ambitions, reflections and concerns that punctuate the lives of today’s teenagers. As TfT Artistic Director Joël Beddows notes, “Les Zinspiré.e.s is a great laboratory in which creators reinvent storytelling every season. It is a pleasure to work with Krystel Descary who has decided to make the writers themselves and their need to change the world the cornerstone of her project. Once again, this production will surprise, as much by its content as its form.

Shocking at times but always relevant, these stories will leave no one indifferent ... or unscathed. Let yourself be transported this year with five unique stories by five young writers, citizens who are committed to talking about the great ecological and social challenges of our time.

La Fonction Sinus (The Sine Function) - Charlotte Calvez

Larry has a problem: she can’t stop falling asleep in French class, and has trouble doing her homework! Her classmates offer her a miracle cure, a revolutionary substance guaranteed to keep her awake all day.

Mais comment ? (But How?) - Cass McGarry,

On her way to school, Rosalie comes face to face with Leo…a student “hit and run” victim the week before! Haunted by this event, she develops an immediate bond with his ghost and tries to understand the reason for his refusal to leave.

À perte de vue (As Far as The Eye Can See) - Martin Staadecker

Luc’s diagnosis is confirmed. He has a rare disease and is going blind. A poignant story that explores a young man’s resiliency and his ability to find hope even when faced with the grim prospect of losing his eyesight.

Vous avez un choix (You Have a Choice) - Emily White

It’s an ordinary school day. The only noticeable exception: Victor, a serious but quiet student, is absent. Suddenly, the unthinkable happens … A story that highlights the harsh consequences of bullying and harassment.

Les Possibilités infinies (Infinite Possibilities) - Sofia Velikov

Gary is a plastic water bottle desperate to escape the confinement of his supermarket shelf and travel the world. When his six-pack is finally purchased, he embarks on an incredible adventure that will forever transform his vision of the planet. An ecological tale that reminds us of the importance of caring for our Earth.

LES ZINSPIRÉ.E.S : INFINITELY AWAKE

A Théâtre français de Toronto production.

With: Francesca Bàrcenas, Alex Coté, Vincent Leblanc-Beaudouin, Stéphie Mazunya and Lexi Soha. 

Authors: Charlotte Calvez, Cass McGarry, Martin Staadecker, Sofia Velikov and Emily White

Director Krystel Descary | Project coordinator: Pierre Simpson | Stage Manager: Natalie Gisèle | Sound Designer: Nick Di Gaetano | Set Designer: Duncan Appleton | Video Creator: Laura Bergeron | Costumes and props: Sarah Délignies

In French (with English surtitles): November 28th - December 13th, 2019 

Berkeley Street Theatre (Upstairs) | 26 Berkeley Street, Toronto

Opening: December 4th, 2019 at 8pm.  

Tickets: Regular: $ 30 | Senior: $ 25 | Under 30 & Artists: $ 20 | Pay what you can on Wednesday | Group rate for 8 or more: $ 25 per ticket Box | Office: 416.534.6604 or theatrefrancais.com.