[The Unholy Body of] Ignatius Grail challenges the idea of the body as a temple and the notion of perfecting the body being an end unto itself – a radical stance in a culture fixated more than ever on external appearances. “This work sheds light on the idea that we are more than our physical bodies,” Ryan explains. “The body is a tool for expression, not something to be shaped and controlled; it’s not the outcome of who we are, we’re not dictated to, or defined by, the body. This work facilitates that.” Inherently, with such themes, the work questions feminine identity, and issues of objectification and body image. “It’s accessible for men and women,” Ryan notes. “But yes, there are things I do feel angry about. I had an eating disorder as a teenager and much of this work is about transcending that.” Is there an element of catharsis involved for Ryan in putting the show together? “I’m certainly unearthing a degree of anger! But the show is expressing something about power, what it means to have it, what it looks like. Power is neither a benevolent nor a malevolent force. I do believe we all have power, but it’s something we shape for ourselves. If you underestimate that, it can be dangerous.” Do we witness Ignatius’s power affecting her environment? “There are two other characters who mirror back to her different facets of what she’s creating, of highlighting the bigger perspective while she’s facing her demons,” answers Ryan. “They’re like her spirit guides. Is it an abstract piece? It’s a psychological drama. You do get a sense of impact, what happens to her reverberates through the piece.”
Ryan is very keen for the audience to be close to the work. “It’s not like you’re at a safe distance, as if you’re watching TV in your lounge. We’ve picked out all these chairs, so everyone gets a front row seat,” she continues. “But there’s no scary audience participation. We’re not asking anyone to juggle or tell a joke. We’ve painted all the walls in the space; I want it to feel like entering a kind of temple, a childlike world of make-believe. The space creates another world we create with sound, physical theatre, with costume; the script forms a non-verbal communication. I love the audience – I want to take them with me. The other artists involved, the performers, the designer, the costume maker, the musician and composer, all are completely aligned with it; it’s been a lovely collaborative process.”
BY LIZA DEZFOULI
Venue: Second Story, 159 Sackville St, Collingwood
Date: September 15 – 20, 24 – 27
Times: 8pm (Sundays 5pm)
Tickets: $10 – $30
