Mummenschanz co-founder Floriana Frassetto (65) starts her next program "you & me" with four new, younger artists.
Showing something that amuses, touches and captivates without words or music, but with quiet actions and few props - that has always been Mummenschanz's recipe for success. The performance group has been delighting audiences all over the world for over four decades.
Physically demanding art form
The latest program "you & me" leaves room for interpretation. It is sometimes funny, sometimes melancholy, witty, romantic, astonishing, dramatic and exciting. An emotional rollercoaster made for Mummenschanz, whose team is now made up of four up-and-coming artists. Two Swiss artists were introduced to the physically demanding performance art form back in 2015 and undertook an intensive tour of the USA last spring. Two new young artists were recruited especially for "you & me".
Musicians of silence
"Our shows have always been music-free."
This makes it all the more surprising that the new characters include two violins. Mummenschanz lady Floriana Frassetto comments on this subject: "Our shows have always been music-free. Even our US agent once asked about the possibility of music. For many years, there has been nothing better for me than people asking me after the show about the music that was played, because it took place in their heads. I find the idea of two violins wanting to make music together very romantic. However, they are disturbed by an aggressive Mummenschanz metronome in the form of two eyes, which they have to chase away. But don't worry: we are still the "musicians of silence".
Changeable butterfly
She says that new ideas usually come when you last expect it: "We often take inspiration from the animal world and then imitate human behavior, always attempting the impossible. The butterfly emerges from a cocoon and will take on different colors and shapes. It is then chased by a large wave of water and army creatures. These can be found on the poster of the new show".
And how does Frassetto see her own future? - "As long as my motivation is there, I'll keep going. After that, I'll probably open a restaurant in my house - for three guests."
