Trick of the Light Theatre Debuts Unique Wordless Production

The innovative theatre company, Trick of the Light Theatre, is set to present its latest production, The Griegol, from October 23-25, 2023, at Wellington’s Hannah Playhouse. This compelling piece of theatre stands out for its almost entirely wordless format, offering a unique experience that transcends traditional storytelling methods.

In an era dominated by visual communication, the significance of body language and non-verbal cues continues to rise. Ralph McCubbin Howell and Hannah Smith, the founders and co-directors of Trick of the Light Theatre, emphasize that while text-based theatre remains prevalent, there is a need for alternative forms of expression. They pointedly observe that some political leaders demonstrate that it is possible to use many words without conveying substantial meaning.

The inspiration for The Griegol emerged during a challenging period in 2020, marked by personal loss and the onset of global lockdowns. The narrative follows a child grappling with the impending loss of a grandmother, leading them to suspect that those around them have been influenced by a supernatural presence. This poignant story addresses themes that are often difficult to articulate, making the absence of words both a challenge and an opportunity for creative storytelling.

“We wanted to create a play that resonates with a universal experience while avoiding the constraints of text,” Howell explained. The production employs a diverse range of techniques, including silhouettes, puppetry, live animation, and an orchestral score, creating a visual feast reminiscent of silent films. The lack of dialogue encourages the audience to engage with the emotions conveyed through movement and music.

The absence of words allows for an emotional connection that bypasses linguistic barriers. As theatre-maker Sarah Rose Leonard notes, wordless performances invite viewers to rely on their intuition rather than logic, enabling them to feel the story rather than just understand it. This approach opens up the narrative to a wider audience, appealing to both adults and children alike.

The creators of The Griegol have found that this form of theatre allows for a more liberated audience response. Adults can freely engage with the humor and emotion presented, while children are guided safely through the more intense moments of the story. The production aims to reach across generations, fostering a shared experience that resonates with viewers of all ages.

As Trick of the Light Theatre continues to explore the interplay between text and visual storytelling, they have also incorporated elements from The Griegol into their subsequent work, Suitcase Show, which similarly features stories that unfold without words. This evolution highlights the potential for innovation in theatre, where the absence of text can lead to greater creative exploration.

With a rich history of wordless theatre both locally and internationally, the creators of The Griegol urge audiences to embrace this art form. “You are already fluent, and work without words can speak volumes,” Howell stated, reflecting their hope to introduce this unique style to a broader audience.

For those interested in witnessing this remarkable production, tickets for The Griegol are available through Eventfinda, promising an unforgettable experience that challenges conventional theatre norms while celebrating the power of visual storytelling.