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06.11.2024 – 10:30
SRG SSR
The RTS documentary and co-production series “Free Play” will be published on November 6 and will be added to the Play Suisse media library. To mark the occasion, a collection of the theater content will be made available on the streaming platform.
The eight-part series “Free Play” features twelve high school students participating in a theater selection. For a month they are taught by a substitute teacher who seems unproductive and does not follow the usual rules of the lesson. But soon the young people show more and more of their personalities and grow beyond themselves in the class. Together, the students get to know each other from a different perspective and accept their mistakes.
The documentary series deals with growing up, because in a time when young people hide their feelings behind a mask, the issue of solidarity becomes more and more urgent. The RTS co-production with Arte France by Julien Gaspar-Oliveri, Johan Rouveyre and Louise Silverio was named best series in the short format competition at the Séries Mania 2024 festival.
The theater in the spotlight
Along with the new “Free Play” series, an accompanying collection will be available on Play Suisse from 7 November. This includes various aspects of theatre, art and storytelling with seven additional documentaries and one feature film.
Includes documentation “Here & Now” (2022), a story about the influence of improvisational theater on the life of filmmaker Angela Rohrer. The film offers a different perspective “Behind me – Three years with Bruno Ganz” (2002), which shows the life of the actor Bruno Ganz as he travels: 1,000 days in search of his own destiny, with doubt as his only companion as he hopes for the creative power of poetry. Ben goes on another journey with a great view “The Maddock Manifesto” (2022), the only play in the collection.
“On the theater campsite” (2022) documents the crazy art project of the Lausanne author and playwright Marielle Pinsard together with the deaf Brazilian Fábio – who led his life thanks to his mastery of the special art of visual vernacular – a type of music for the deaf. Tell about other kinds of creative processes “Reveal” (2023). The project is a film reenactment of a combination of the plays “Be Arielle F” and “dSimon”. “My virtual body” (2022) where current topics such as gender, the accessibility of our personal data and artificial intelligence are at the fore.
The International Theater also has a place in the collection. In Berlin, theater director Milo Rau investigates “Congo Tribunal” (2017), the background of this war and paints a grim picture of the neo-colonial world order in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The documentation “The written face” (1995) features Japanese Kabuki dancer Bando Tamasaburo on stage and reports on his journey to advance the art form while also celebrating female characters.
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Theater Education Expert
Time.news Editor (T.E.): Welcome to our special feature. Today, we’re delving into a fascinating new documentary series titled “Free Play,” which captures the transformative journey of high school students exploring theater under unconventional guidance. We’re joined by Dr. Emilia Hartmann, an expert in theater education. Welcome, Dr. Hartmann!
Dr. Emilia Hartmann (E.H.): Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an exciting project.
T.E.: Let’s dive right in. The series focuses on twelve high school students and their experiences with a substitute teacher who deviates from traditional teaching methods. What impact do you think this approach has on young learners, particularly in the realm of self-discovery?
E.H.: Great question! Theater inherently encourages self-expression. When students are given the freedom to explore their personalities, as seen in “Free Play,” it fosters a safe space for vulnerability. By stepping away from rigid structures, students often unlock hidden facets of themselves, which is crucial during their formative years.
T.E.: That’s so insightful! The series also addresses the theme of solidarity among youth who typically conceal their emotions. Why do you think this topic is especially pertinent today?
E.H.: In our digital age, many young people feel pressured to present a facade that aligns with social expectations—often at the expense of their true emotions. As they’re bombarded with curated images on social media, the idea of solidarity becomes vital. “Free Play” emphasizes the importance of authenticity and community, showing these young individuals that they are not alone in their struggles and experiences.
T.E.: The series indeed won several accolades, including being named the best series in the short format competition at Séries Mania 2024. What does this recognition signify for similar projects in the future?
E.H.: This award underscores the growing appreciation for nuanced storytelling in educational documentaries. It’s a signal that audiences and critics alike are valuing content that explores complex emotional themes while providing educational insight. Such recognition can inspire future projects, encouraging creatives to push boundaries in how they tackle difficult subjects, particularly surrounding youth development.
T.E.: Alongside “Free Play,” there’s an accompanying collection of theater-related content. Why do you believe it’s essential to showcase various aspects of theater alongside the documentary?
E.H.: Theater isn’t just about performance; it’s a multifaceted art form that encompasses storytelling, emotional nuances, and cultural commentary. By providing additional documentaries and films, this collection enriches the viewer’s understanding of theater’s impact. It encourages audiences to appreciate not just the art itself, but also its relevance to our lives, history, and social dynamics.
T.E.: One of the featured films is “Here & Now,” exploring improvisational theater. How do you believe improvisation contributes to personal growth among students?
E.H.: Improvisational theater is an incredible tool for nurturing creativity, adaptability, and confidence. It teaches students to think on their feet, embrace spontaneity, and collaborate effectively with peers. By allowing them to step outside of their comfort zones, they learn valuable life skills that extend far beyond the stage—making decisions in real time and being open to unexpected outcomes.
T.E.: Thank you, Dr. Hartmann, for sharing your expertise. “Free Play” seems like a remarkable series that not only entertains but also nurtures vital life skills among young audiences.
E.H.: It truly is! I look forward to seeing how it resonates with viewers and how it may inspire new conversations around the role of theater in education.
T.E.: For those interested, “Free Play” premieres today, November 6th, on Play Suisse. Don’t miss out on this unique blend of education, art, and personal growth! Thank you again, Dr. Hartmann, for joining us.
E.H.: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure.