Theater production explores personal freedom
A Belgian theater production titled Justices follows the story of a man with Down syndrome who wants to reject the label of being "legally irresponsible" and instead embrace the freedom to make mistakes and take responsibility for them. The play challenges societal perceptions of autonomy and legal status through its narrative.Dante’s Divine Comedy reimagined
The production, created by Clément Papachristou, reinterprets the circles of Hell from Dante's Divine Comedy into ten distinct scenes. Each scene is portrayed as a vibrant and dynamic stage tableau, transforming the classical narrative into a modern and theatrical experience.Creative team and artistic styles
The interpreters and writers include Edouardo De La Faille, Guillaume Paps, and Noémie Zurletti. The production uses a mix of performance styles such as cabaret, mime, dance, song, and interactive elements to challenge norms and push artistic boundaries. Scenography and artistic collaboration are handled by Silvio Palomo, while dramaturgy is supported by Marie Alié and Salim Djaferi.Supporting roles and contributions
Darius Dolatyari-Dolatdoust is the costume designer, and Ana Samoilovich is responsible for lighting. Joseph Schiano di Lombo composes the music, and Guillaume Paps also contributes paintings. Legal and writing advice is provided by Germain Haumont and Antoine Bréa, respectively, while Marie Astier serves as the associated researcher.Production partners and collaborators
The production is staged by the Théâtre National Wallonie-Bruxelles and the Compagnie SAINTSGENS - Clément Papachristou. It is co-produced by several cultural institutions, including the Théâtre de Namur and Maison de la culture de Tournai, and is in collaboration with Créahmbxl (Création et Handicap Mental), a Brussels-based organization focused on mental disability and creativity.Funding and institutional support
The production received support from multiple institutions, including the Ateliers de construction et de couture du Théâtre National Wallonie-Bruxelles and the Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles. It also benefited from grants and partnerships with organizations such as Le Corridor, CPI Cour pénale internationale, and Taxshelter.be, as well as the Belgian federal government.Acknowledgments and creation details
The production acknowledges the contributions of numerous individuals and organizations, including Christine Bartolomei, Aristide Bianchi, and others. Clément Papachristou is an associated artist at the Théâtre National Wallonie-Bruxelles, and the creation took place at the Studio Théâtre National Wallonie-Bruxelles. The play will run for 1 hour and 50 minutes and is scheduled to be staged from December 10 to 11, 2026, at the Théâtre Nanterre-Amandiers.
