One day a few years back, Vancouver-based actresses Emelia Symington Fedy and Anita Rochon were sitting around pondering the meaning of life. They asked themselves how people who suffer tragedies find hope. They also wondered about fate versus self-determination.
Those questions led to deeper questions.
We asked ourselves lots of questions about faith and how people survive when they have a crisis of faith, said Fedy, who is also an accomplished writer, director and radio freelancer. We then decided if we have questions, others do too. So, we went on a quest to find people of all ages to tell us about their experiences and beliefs around fate, faith and destiny.
The idea of a quest spawned the idea of a play.
In the spring of 2009, the two brought on board fellow actors, Daryl King and Hazel Venzon.
Together, they collaborated on a cross-country road trip where the four would each interview 25 people, some as old as 100, about their personal stories of grappling with lifes tough questions Kismet, one to one hundred is the result and the production is opening in the Gateway Theatres Studio B on Thursday, March 8. (Kismet, a Turkish/Arabic/Persian word means fate or destiny.)
The four artists covered the Prairies, the Maritimes, and the West Coast as far as Bella Colla.
We had 10 questions and we used tape recorders, video and written transcripts to record our 100 interviews, said Fedy, who added Rochon directs and acts in the show as well.
Those 10 questions made up the play, which is shown via video screens, audio, photographs and reenactments by the four actors on a sparse stage.
Some of the questions included: Have you ever had one specific event that has changed your life forever? Is there a specific song that every time you hear it makes you cry? Do things happen for a reason?
We discovered amazing stories of endurance, perseverance and hope, said Fedy. Its a really compelling look at how people answered the most profound questions, honestly and so willingly.
The thread that binds Kismet together is the four 30-something artists who begged the question, why are we here?
The play celebrates ordinary people from all ages who opened themselves up to us, Fedy said. There were lots of surprises along the way and some mind blowing experiences. However, I think in the end, the play affirms life and the journey we are all on.
Kismet first appeared on stage in 2010 and received great reviews, including one from Colin Thomas of the Georgia Straight who wrote, Kismet, one to one hundred, is hilarious, moving and its always, always generous...
For Fedy, she believes Kismet explores our sense of spirit, community and determination.
In the 70 minute show, we arent commenting on the people we interviewed, we just tell their stories, she added. Its humbling and heartwarming.
The production runs until March 17. For more information, call 604-270-6500 or visit www.gatewaytheatre.com.
