Empire of the Son is the story of two generations of broadcasters, and the radio silence between them. As father and son, Akira and Tetsuro Shigematsu shared the same profession as public radio broadcasters. Each of them revelled in communicating with millions of their listeners, but they never spoke with each other. When Akira’s health begins to falter in his old age, Tetsuro bridges the gap between them with the only object they both understood: a microphone. Based on a series of audio interviews with his father, Empire of the Son is an original theatrical production by Tetsuro Shigematsu (former host of CBC Radio One’s The Roundup). It is a unique presentation hybrid, which combines the cinematography of a film being screened at the moment it is being shot and the raw immediacy of live performance. In doing so, the show magically conjures entire worlds: from the ashes of Hiroshima to present-day Vancouver, marshalling the tiniest of objects to focus on life’s biggest questions. The show, hailed as “A riveting, emotional theatrical experience” by the Vancouver Sun, sold out before it opened at its premiere at The Cultch in 2015, unprecedented for the world premiere of a Canadian play. Colin Thomas of the Georgia Straight pronounced it “Exquisite” and wrote, “I’m telling all of the people I love most to see this show… I can’t say enough good things about Empire of the Son.” Van City Buzz proclaimed it “understated perfection.” The critical acclaim to Empire of the Son is echoed by the response of its audiences: “A gift.” | “Intelligent, humorous, touching & stirring. Just beautiful.” “Innovative, surprising, unique, plus moving beyond belief.” “Beautiful story so delicately framed. I will remember how this show made me feel.” “What a wonderful experience to share the memories of a father through the eyes of a loving son.”
Expand your theatre experience. Join us for the Opening Night Reception, learn more at the Yac with Mac Pre-show Chat, discuss the play with the cast at the Post-Show Chat, & save at the Previews & Pay-What-You-Can Matinees. learn more
Accounting Clerk Permanent Full-Time Position Extension for submissions: Monday, April 8, 2019, 12pm PST
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