Legendary actress Isabella Rossellini returns to the Luckman stage for two evenings with her new one-woman show, Darwin’s Smile, which reconciles two worlds that are often at the opposite ends: art and science. Reading Charles Darwin’s book “The Expression of Emotions on Man and Animals” revealed to her that the continuity between humans and animals can also be detected in the expression of emotions. Isabella explores how empathy, which is the base of acting, is also necessary for the study of animal behavior (ethology).
The show is both a lesson on evolution and acting. In her usual comical tones, she demonstrates how acting could use to understand the mysterious nature of animals and their emotions. With humor and simple, innocent devices, she plays on stage dogs, cats, chickens, peacocks, and, of course, Charles Darwin.
The show is an opportunity to learn while being entertained and laughing all about the art of acting and complex scientific theories. Isabella explains, “During the COVID-19 lockdown, I had ample time to reflect on my passions for theater and science. These two interests of mine seemed to be distinct and separate: one satisfied my heart, the other my brain. Until I understood that they can be reconciled. Finally, my heart and brain are reconciled and harmonious.”
Performances:
Written by Isabella Rossellini
Directed by Murielle Mayette-Holtz
Costumes and set by Rudy Sabounghi
Lighting design by Pascal Noël
Music by Cyril Giroux
Videos by Andy Byers and Rick Gilbert
Event sponsors.
