Okay, that’s a lie. I’m actually leaving on Air Canada. But that doesn’t sound half as romantic, and the plane will probably be late, and there will be all sorts of complications, and I’ll lose my suitcase, and there will be jet lag and general nausea…
I mean, yay! traveling!
This Sunday I am leaving Ottawa to do some research in Western Canada for my MA thesis. In case you’re not familiar with my academic work, I am currently studying at the University of Ottawa in the new Master of Arts program in Theatre Theory and Dramaturgy. That means lots of writing.
My thesis examines the role of festivals in the consecration and distribution of new works. I’m researching three different companies – Catalyst Theatre in Edmonton, the Old Trout Puppet Workshop in Calgary, and Electric Company Theatre in Vancouver – and looking at how their productions have developed through the process of touring and participating in festivals. Here’s hoping it’ll be awesome and revolutionary; or at least that I’ll pass the program…
Here is my itinerary so far:
- EDMONTON – January 10 to 17
Purpose: visiting with Catalyst Theatre and attend rehearsals for Nevermore. Also visiting with the Artist in Residence at the Citadel Theatre. Oh, and freezing to death in the street. - CALGARY – January 17 to 28
Purpose: seeing shows at the High Performance Rodeo (long-running international festival created by members of One Yellow Rabbit) and getting the general vibe of the event. Hopefully visiting the workspace of the Old Trout Puppet Workshop. - VANCOUVER – January 28 to February 7
Purpose: seeing shows at the PuSh Festival (newer international festival) and meeting with Norman Armour. Also visiting the Electric Company Theatre and finding out more about their first show Brilliant! The Blinding Enlightenment of Nikola Tesla. I’ll be seeing the following shows at the PuSh Festival: Joan of Arc, Clark and I…, Passion Project, Edward Curtis, Sonic Genome, Nevermore, Best Before, and Kamp.
I will try not to have too much fun because this is supposed to be a research trip for academic purposes and I’m going to be working really hard. At least that’s what I’m telling the university…
Check back on this blog for more details: I’ll be posting reviews of shows, sharing travel stories, and disclosing fun theatre gossip. Stay tuned!
I’m going to miss you terribly, but I’m very much looking forward to your updates!
I’m going to miss you, too! And I will be sending you extra good vibes on Tuesday for your show. I know you’ll be awesome.
THIS Sunday?! But we JUST MET!
(Also: Have a wonderful time, bring a recording device so you don’t actually have to take notes while you’re enjoying the cast parties, be safe, and let’s play scrabble when you get back.)
We will meet again AND we will play scrabble. Wish I could bring the board with me, but my suitcase needs to be filled mostly with warm clothes. I have a recording device, but thanks for the reminder: it’s easy to forget little things like that.
Hey! So, my couch-requests haven’t been particularly fruitful, but send me a message when you’re here and I can at least introduce you to a few fellow MAers. ;-)
Hi Cassandra, I’m staying with a friend of mine near Whyte Avenue, so that’s all good! I’m going to be in rehearsals every day from 10 – 6, but I’m free most evenings. Let me know when you want to meet up!
You don’t want to miss connecting with Judd Palmer of the Old Trout Puppet Workshop, if only by phone. He’s in Victoria BC a good deal of the time but will be with the other Trouts for the Vancouver Arts Olympiad in Vancouver; likely in Calgary for rehearsal before that as well.
Thanks, Marilyn! I will check in with Judd again to see if he is in Calgary at the same time; I hope so!
Have a great trip Jessica. I look forward to reading all about it.
Fly safe!
Thank you! I just found out that the only food on the plane is “for purchase” — I am suddenly much less excited.
Hi Jessica,
Came across your posting, so glad to hear that PuSh is going to be part of your MA thesis! Perhaps I will see you in Vancouver. Safe travels :-)
Kara
(Communications Manager at PuSh)
Hi Kara,
I’m so looking forward to attending the festival for the first time. Your publicist Ellie was incredibly helpful, and the festival programming looks fabulous.
See you soon!
Have a fabulous time out west young lady! All the best with your research. It’s a terrific opportunity!
May you be good for the right reasons and may you be bad for the right memories! ;) Looking forward to hearing your tales upon your return.
Love ya.
Merci, ma belle! I look forward to sharing my adventures with you, though the especially juicy ones may have to appear only in private messages…
It isn’t a lie! Air Canada uses jet planes! (It sure isn’t like they have huge propellers on the front!)
Just shows what I know about air travel. Thanks for the clear-up, Rusty!
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