Build: Théâtre Nanterre-Amandiers, Nanterre

Abstract

The second case study looks at the Théâtre Nanterre-Amandiers under the artistic direction of Philippe Quesne, focusing this time on the question of community, specifically, who the public theatre is for. It does so firstly through an examination of the tenuous relationship between artistic director Quesne and the mayor of Nanterre, Patrick Jarry. Whereas Jarry openly expressed preference for artistic and cultural programming that catered more specifically to the residents of Nanterre, Quesne opted for an approach to the space as a hub for experimentation, oftentimes extending beyond experimentations in form to include possibilities for alternative modes of spectatorial relationality to these works. This spirit is evident in both his own works, as well as the two performances analysed in the chapter. The first, Lotte van den Berg’s Dying Together, explores the process of community creation via direct spectator participation as well as an interrogation of the notion of vivre ensemble. The second, Phia Ménard’s Contes Immoraux – Partie I: Maison Mère, pushes the question of “community” even further, not necessarily by exploring the possibility for expansion of ways of creating or conceiving community, but by directly questioning the foundation that this community rests on, especially in the face of the current climate crisis.