Willem Dafoe’s Vision for the Venice Biennale Theater Festival

Willem Dafoe, acclaimed actor and director, has revealed his inaugural programming as the artistic director of the theater department for the Venice Biennale, the esteemed organization overseeing the Venice Film Festival. This year’s theme, Theater is body – Body is theater, sets the stage for an innovative exploration of performance art.

The 53rd International Theater Festival in Venice, taking place from May 31 to June 15, promises an eclectic mix of performances. Highlights include Davide Iodice’s unique adaptation of Pinocchio, featuring actors from diverse backgrounds, including those with Down syndrome, autism, Williams syndrome, and Asperger’s syndrome. Additionally, Dafoe will participate in a groundbreaking performance experiment alongside actress Simonetta Solder, best known for her roles in A Beautiful Imperfection and Succession, paying tribute to the late director Richard Foreman.

Dafoe’s Artistic Intentions

In an interview with THR, Dafoe emphasized his desire to curate a showcase of artistry that resonates intimately with the performers. He stated, “My intention is ultimately just to bring beautiful theater to the selection. But it’s a particular kind of theater that is very close to the actor.” Dafoe’s insights reflect a deep understanding of the intersection of the actor’s physical presence, the lyrical nature of theater, and the importance of ritual.

A Personal Homage to Richard Foreman

Dafoe’s homage to Foreman holds significant meaning for him. “Richard Foreman’s work was one of my favorite theater experiences as an audience member,” he reminisces. “He was always full of contradictions; he made beautiful, enigmatic theater that, while challenging, was deeply enriching.” This heartfelt nostalgia informs Dafoe’s upcoming project, as he seeks to recreate a collaborative experiment originally conceived with Foreman, which involved reading fragmented thoughts and phrases in spontaneous exchanges.

The Performance Experiment

Audiences are in for a captivating experience. Dafoe described his experimental performance: “We’ll shuffle the phrases like cards, dividing them between myself and an actress. This randomness can lead to unexpected dialogues that spark meaning.” The performance will further explore linguistic nuances by presenting it a third time in Italian, enhancing both diversity and engagement in the piece.

Collaboration with Simonetta Solder

Although Dafoe had not met Solder prior to this collaboration, he intuitively felt she was the right fit. “She has a background in the New York theater scene, speaks excellent English, and often translates,” he explained. “She’s also an incredibly talented actress, which made collaborating with her an enriching experience.”

Engaging Non-Traditional Performers

Dafoe expressed admiration for Iodice’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity in theater. “He creatively involves non-traditional communities in performance,” Dafoe noted, drawing attention to the extraordinary talent emerging from individuals with special needs. “The engagement and clarity they bring to their roles are profoundly moving.”

The Fundamental Questions of Humanity

As a thematic exploration, Dafoe shared that Iodice’s Pinocchio prompts the essential question: “What makes a person human?” It provokes contemplation about the unique qualities that define our humanity—an inquiry that resonates deeply with Dafoe’s artistic philosophy.

Creating Community through Performance

Reflecting on the emotional impact of Pinocchio, Dafoe noted, “The audience connected profoundly with the production, creating a sense of community that was palpable that night.” He expressed excitement for the opportunity to witness such connections again as the festival approaches.

Embracing Uncertainty in Artistic Expression

When it comes to audience expectations for the Biennale festival, Dafoe remains grounded. “I focus on what I can control—my creative vision,” he stated. “While I naturally hope the audience enjoys the performances, it’s important to trust the creative process rather than to become overly fixated on predicting reactions.”

For more details on Dafoe’s artistic endeavor with the Venice Biennale, visit the Hollywood Reporter.