M’ap Boule by Nancy Denis

Produced by Performing Lines

Red Earth Arts Precinct Theatre, 7.15pm-8.45pm, Ages 16+
Adult: $35, Conc: $30, Youth: $17.50, Group: $30, Family: $86

M'ap Boulé – Haitian Creole for “I’m on fire” – is a play with songs that tells the story of a child born of immigrants growing up in a country called Australia. It’s the story of Nancy Denis. Told through reenactments, original music, and poetry, Nancy recounts her exploration of intersectional identity framed by stories of the first black-led republic of Haiti when black Haitian slaves revolted against British and French colonists. Directed by Anthea Williams and supported by lighting design by Karen Norris and costume/set design by Maitê Inaê, M'ap Boulé finds contrasting moments of struggle and hilarity through the true retelling of Nancy’s adolescence.

This dramatic cabaret-style performance is relatable and accessible for audiences of all backgrounds. Nancy’s charming ability to find humour in the darkest of storylines provides continuous opportunities for connection with her viewers, quickly building rapport with light-hearted interaction. But the true centerpiece of this work is the music, developed with the late Carl St. Jacques. These songs not only showcase Nancy’s incredible vocal abilities but also reveal the deep emotion tied to this narrative, many of them songs of empowerment or self-love. Nancy is joined onstage by Musical Director, Victoria Falconer, as well as musician Mick Stuart and Hip-Hop artist and cultural leader Kween G. The camaraderie displayed between these four artists further adds to the endearing nature of this performance. M'ap Boulé is honest, witty and unapologetic, welcoming theatregoers to share in this search for self-acceptance.

M’ap Boulé is produced by Performing Lines. M’ap Boulé was commissioned and produced by Utp as a film in 2020 and as a theatre production presented at Darlinghurst Theatre Company (DTC) in 2022. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its arts funding and advisory body and the NSW Government through Create NSW, as well as Crown Resorts Foundation, Packer Family Foundation, and Bankstown Arts Centre.

Warning: Discussion of mental health, adult theme and strong language.