Fire & Ashes

This production has been heavily shaped by the terrifying events that dominate recent headlines: war in Ukraine, genocide in Gaza, and climate disasters. While not followinga linear narrative, it weaves together compelling visual images, abstract gestures, unexpected dances, performative actions, sounds, and songs, evoking sensations such as panic, escape, survival, disaster, trauma, confinement, alienation, self-destruction, and disappearance. The dancer-singer-performer’s body navigates these shifting states and moods – hopeless yet resilient. Ablaze with intensity, destined for destruction, yet carrying a youthful vibrancy that confronts adversity head-on and embraces the world’s pain.

Thierry Smits, with the support of Vincenzo Carta, continues to explore his daring, theatrical approach that began with “WaW [We Are Woman]” (2018), followed by his solo “Vanishing Act” (2023) and the duo “Pinkie Ponkie” (2024). At the heart of Fire and Ashes is Mimbi Lubansu, a recent graduate of P.A.R.T.S. who first worked with Smits at just sixteen years old. The stage design, created specifically for the Thor studio by scenographer Stéphane Arcas, enhances this immersive experience. The eclectic soundscape, composed by musician Matteo Melan, blends a wide range of influences, with music that physically engages the audience. It also features four songs co-written with Mimbi Lubansu and dramaturg Antoine Pickels spanning crooner ballads, rap, catchy pop hooks and cold wave. Lighting, designed by Nicolas Simonin, and costumes by Charlyne Misplon add the finishing touches to this constantly shifting, dynamic visual experience.

Presse