DynamO Theatre’s production of me me me… uses very little dialogue, employing a dynamic language of movement that propels the story through the acrobatics of the actors. In the classroom, Mathilda enthusiastically answers the teacher’s questions. Her enthusiasm stirs the ire of her classmates and through the production she finds herself gradually becoming more and more alienated. Soon she is an outsider. Her classmates go from teasing her to actively ignoring her. The story builds until Mathilda must decide how she will manage the situation.
The production is enthralling, starting with a high level of energy and building up through the entire show. Each scene serves not only to progress the story but to showcase through movement the joy and sense of play that fills every experience of childhood. In this way, me me me… transcends simple storytelling and connects with the audience on a level that they understand---higher in some ways than adults can easily access. The ending, while a bit manufactured, hits that median note between restoring the balance between the characters and the wish fulfillment of a happy ending.
me me me… is playing on the main stage of the Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People until October 13, with special French showings at 1pm on October 4 and 9. The show is recommended for children ages 7 and up. For more information or to purchase tickets online, go to www. Lktyp.ca, or call the box office at 416 862-2222. ~ robis
