Decalogue – The Latest Theater Production of Paper Tiger International Theater

Author : Lucille Enel
Published on : May 18, 2016 | Last modified on : September 1st, 2020 at 1:36 pm

National Stary Theatre, built in 1781, has set the theme of this season as “Do not be afraid”, a quotation from Pope John Paul II, to make a response to the current social situation with which Poland and Europe are confronted. Stary Theatre has then commissioned for the first time Chinese director Tian Gebing to create the theatre project ‘Decalogue’.

Letting an artist coming from a completely different culture circle confront the biblical “Decalogue” may seem like a crazy task. Nevertheless, given the widespread misrepresentation of the fundamental notions of Judeo-Christian culture, such craziness might be the only way of getting to the heart of the matter. Chinese avant-garde artist Tian Gebing takes up the Ten Commandments, Book of Exodus and faith in God, looking into them with no preconceived notions. “Chosen people”, “sin”, “wrath of God” are all concepts that strongly stir our imagination. Burning bush, water springing from the rock, parting of the Red Sea, golden calf – all these objects are very clear symbols to the European mind and their interpretation is often take for granted. However, to an outside observer they become a starting point for a completely new story, one that is possibly closer to the reality of the present day. In his works director Tian Gebing, co-founder of the “Paper Tiger” artistic group, uses a great variety of texts, also those non-theatrical, such as court records, instruction manuals, and press releases. One of the most important elements of his performances is dance, choreographed in collaboration with actress and choreographer Wang Yanan.