Edith and Me

Headlining the festival, as part of a world tour, is acclaimed performing artist Yael Rasooly in her puppetry musical tour de force Edith and Me. Yael’s work has garnered rave reviews in the New York Times, The Guardian, and Télérama France, with accolades in over 30 countries, she is bringing her virtuosic vocals and puppetry skills to Stratford. In this moving piece she “single-handedly” plays villains and heroes, delving into the aftermath of violence and the decision to stay silent or speak out. This play presents, with warmth and humor, one woman’s incredible struggle to reclaim her life and voice through art, with the inspiring force of a legendary woman and singer, Edith Piaf.

Synopsis

A singer, suddenly deprived of her voice and movement, finds herself frozen, trapped by a buried secret. As solitude engulfs her, a fiery and rebellious Edith Piaf emerges to tear her from her silence and bring her back to life. The two women form an unexpected duo that oscillates between tenderness, humor, and confrontation.

Thus begins an intense journey, fraught with grandeur and fragility, rivalry and complicity. But to free themselves, they must delve into the twists and turns of the past, daring to reveal the unspeakable. Through art, in its most visceral form, they confront their demons, whether they lurk nearby or deep within themselves. Until a new voice emerges from their struggle.

Artist Yael Rassoly respectfully addresses a sensitive topic: violence against women.

A discussion with the artist is available at the end of the performances.

Credits:

Creator & Performer: Yael Rasooly

Special Guest: Edith Piaf!

Content Advisory:

Using the artistic power of puppetry & music, Edith and Me is a work that explores themes intended for a mature audience, such as sexual violence, and trauma recovery. This show does include graphic depictions of said content. SpringWorks Festival is committed to ensuring our audience has a comfortable, safe, and exciting theatrical experience. If you would like more details about the play’s content to decide if attending is right for you, please feel free to contact us at tickets@springworksfestival.ca

Live Music I Object, Hand and Character Puppetry