Harbourfront Worldstage – PME-ART / Hospitality 3: Individualism Was A Mistake

reviewed by Paula Citron
____________________________

Hospitality 3: Individualism Was A Mistake
PME-ART
Harbourfront Worldstage
Created and performed by Caroline Dubois, Claudia Fancello and Jacob Wren
At Enwave Theatre until Saturday
____________________________

The world premiere of Hospitality 3: Individualism Was A Mistake is a good introduction to the artistic ethic of Montreal’s acclaimed multidisciplinary collective PME-ART.

The Hospitality project is an ongoing series that tries to come to grips with how friends and strangers can interact, and I quote, “in a manner that is at the same time useful, critical, hospitable and surprising.” The piece was created by Jacob Wren, Caroline Dubois and Claudia Fancello.

The atmosphere is super casual. The group asks the audience four questions and their answers are posted on the wall. They talk about LPs they like. They perform tunes on children’s musical instruments. They create precariously balancing sculptures out of the props. They analyze the answers. The convivial feel in the room is entirely different than at formal theatrical events.

PME-ART has fascinated audiences around the world. Because of the rambling nature, however, for me, the jury is still out.

PME-ART performs at the Enwave Theatre until Nov. 22.