Philippe Gaulier’s Legacy Transforms New Zealand Theatre Scene

Philippe Gaulier, the celebrated French theatre guru and master clown, passed away at the age of 82, leaving behind a profound influence on global theatre, particularly in Aotearoa New Zealand. His innovative performance style has been woven into the fabric of New Zealand theatre since the 1970s, significantly shaping the artistic landscape of the region.

Gaulier trained at the renowned École Internationale de Théâtre Jacques Lecoq, founded by Jacques Lecoq in 1956. This institution emphasized physical theatre techniques, including masks, mime, and clowning. Nola Millar, the inaugural director of Toi Whakaari New Zealand Drama School, remarked on the school’s significance, stating it was one of the best theatre schools she had encountered. Numerous graduates of Gaulier’s school have had a lasting impact in New Zealand, including notable figures such as Tom McCrory, who served as Head of Movement from 1998 to 2013, and Nina Nawalowalo, an award-winning director.

The influence of Gaulier is particularly evident in the establishment of theatre companies like The Conch, co-founded by Nawalowalo and McCrory in 2002. This company focuses on Pasifika narratives, employing visual and physical theatre forms. McCrory noted that Gaulier’s teaching fosters resilience and independence among actors, which resonates with the New Zealand ethos: “New Zealanders are inventive by necessity.”

The Art of Clowning and Complicité

Gaulier’s pedagogical approach revolved around the concept of Le Jeu (the game) and complicité, a term that captures the collaborative spirit between performers. His teaching style encourages actors to engage deeply with both their fellow performers and the audience. David O’Donnell, a theatre director and academic, emphasized that this methodology cultivates a sense of connection and engagement that is essential for live performance.

The influence of Gaulier extends beyond individual actors to theatre companies across New Zealand. The Theatre Action company, active from 1971 to 1977, was established by several graduates of Lecoq’s school, marking the early adoption of French clowning techniques in New Zealand theatre.

Samantha Scott, who founded the Maidment Youth Theatre in 1991—now known as Massive Theatre Company—has been a significant advocate for Gaulier’s methods. Many actors associated with Massive, including Miriama McDowell and Kura Forrester, have trained under Gaulier’s influence. Scott herself has returned to study with Gaulier multiple times, enhancing her understanding of clowning and teaching. Reflecting on Gaulier’s appreciation for New Zealanders, Scott mentioned, “I think fundamentally he really likes New Zealanders; he likes our gutsiness.”

Innovations in Collaborative Theatre

Massive Theatre Company emphasizes the importance of complicité in its performances, celebrating the joy of creating art together. This philosophy fosters an ensemble-based approach where actors thrive on shared experiences. Another theatre company, A Slightly Isolated Dog, founded in 2005, builds on Gaulier’s ideas by making the audience an integral part of the performance.

Director Leo Gene Peters has not trained directly with Gaulier but collaborates with many who have. Core member Jonathan Price studied with Gaulier in 2016, infusing the company’s productions with a sense of playfulness and connection. Since 2015, A Slightly Isolated Dog has created performances inspired by classic stories, adopting the aesthetics of a French theatre troupe. Their productions, including adaptations of Don Juan and Jekyll & Hyde, invite audiences into a collaborative experience, echoing Gaulier’s belief that “in the grip of pleasure and freedom, everyone is beautiful.”

As the theatre community mourns the loss of Philippe Gaulier, his transformative legacy continues to inspire creativity and innovation in New Zealand theatre. Through the teachings of Gaulier, a new generation of actors and directors is empowered to explore their artistic potential, ensuring that his influence endures for years to come.