Unique author-director duo marks 30 years
Marion Aubert and Marion Guerrero, a rare pair in French theatre, are set to present their new creation La Falaise ou Artémis, celle dont la colère est devenue plus légère avec le temps as part of their residency at La Chartreuse de Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. This production celebrates 30 years of artistic collaboration, beginning with their time as students at the École Nationale Supérieure d'Art Dramatique de Montpellier. Historical roles in theatre
Aubert and Guerrero highlight the rarity of author-director partnerships in modern theatre, noting that such pairs have largely disappeared. They reference past collaborations like Samuel Beckett and Roger Blin, and Patrice Chéreau and Bernard-Marie Koltès, and argue that having distinct roles streamlines the creative process and fosters a more dynamic artistic relationship. Decentralizing theatre
After graduating, the duo chose to remain in Montpellier, aiming to shift the focus of theatre away from Paris. Marion Guerrero humorously remarked, "we won't go to Paris, Paris will come find us." This philosophy was evident in 2005 with Histrions, created in Uzès and later performed in Paris at La Colline. The company has since remained in Montpellier, proving that national recognition can be achieved outside the capital. Education and mentorship
The company places strong emphasis on knowledge transfer and creating outside of Paris. Aubert is co-responsible for the writing department at the ENSATT in Lyon, where she trains emerging playwrights. Guerrero teaches at major theatre schools and recently directed Peer Gynt as the graduation show for the ENSAD Montpellier class. The new production features young actors and is supported by Apolline Gille-Malézé. Themes and design
The new show blends ancient myths with themes of contemporary adolescence, exploring the intersection of different genres and time periods. Set designer Daniel Fayet created a structure with five platforms connected by a luminous wire, with lighting by Olivier Modol. The performance is designed to be adaptable, suitable for various venues including schools and community centers. Performance dates and tour
La Falaise ou Artémis, celle dont la colère est devenue plus légère avec le temps will be performed on December 10 and 11 at the Théâtre Jean Vilar in Montpellier. The production, supported by multiple institutions, will tour across France following the company’s ongoing residency at La Chartreuse de Villeneuve-lès-Avignon.
