(le) Pain

JD BROUSSÉ

(le) Pain is the debut solo show from Total Theatre award-winning artist, JD Broussé. It was made in collaboration with cheeky cabaret director and future national treasure Ursula Martinez and co-commissioned by London International Mime Festival and Warwick Arts Centre.

Jean Daniel Broussé is the only son of a third generation baker. Destined to follow in the footsteps of his father, grandfather and great grandfather and inherit the family bakery in rural France… But JD, queer, a circus artist and intolerant to patriarchy – is not a baker.

(le) Pain is the unexpected chapter in the bakery story. A journey through bread making, acrobatics and growing up in strait-laced provincial France, that reverberates with the tragedy, comedy and joy of making a break for it.

Jean Daniel Broussé (JD to his friends) studied Medieval History and Modern Literature at university in France and then Circus Arts in London. He worked with Square Peg, Barely Methodical Troupe and Ellie Dubois’ Superfan AND he co-created KNOT with Nikki which won international acclaim and many awards. JD is not going to bake cakes. Or Bread. Or is he?

JD’s story is often poignant, often painful, but it is sprinkled with mischief and dusted with humour. ★★★★
— Financial Times
The making of bread as a metaphor for the shaping of a life is unforced and very funny. ★★★★
— The Guardian
  • Premiere: 2020

    Set-up: Indoor

    Running time: 55 minutes

    Language: English, French, Occitan

    Touring party: 2

    Minimum stage dimensions: 5m wide x 4m deep

    Age guidance: 16+

  • Devised and performed by Jean Daniel Broussé

    Director: Ursula Martinez

    Movement Director: Leah Marojevic

    Acrobatic Consultant: Charlie Wheeller

    Lighting Design: Joe Hornsby

    Costumes: Max Allen

    Original Music: Samir Kennedy

    Producer: Di Robson

    Production Manager: Hannah Blamire

    Technical Stage Manager: Fergus Waldron

    Projections: Sam Williams

    Video Material created by Jean-Daniel Broussé, Laurie Warman, Evelyne Larran

    Co-commissioners: Warwick Arts Centre, London International Mime Festival

    Funders: Arts Council England Lottery Funded, Jerwood Circus Residencies

    Thanks to: Betrand Broussé, Myriam Broussé, Staff of Boulangerie Broussé

  • “The making of bread as a metaphor for the shaping of a life is unforced and very funny.” The Guardian ★★★★

    “JD’s story is often poignant, often painful, but it is sprinkled with mischief and dusted with humour ” Financial Times ★★★★

    “a moment of profound change in our civilisation ” The Scotsman ★★★★

    “Knot is a beautiful, touching show, performed with magnificent skill and so much heart.” The 730 Review ★★★★

    “The strength, stamina and control of both performers are spectacles within themselves.” The Wonderful World of Dance

    “A thrilling and entertaining show; perhaps pioneering a new genre of comedy acrobatics” Dance Tabs ★★★★

  • Nikki and JD offer a wide range of wrap-around activities, including: post-show discussions, acrobatics workshops, dance workshops. Available for all ages and levels.

  • For more information, check availability, please contact Axel Satgé: axel@yelloweverything.com.

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