Adam Paolozza is an award-winning performer, director, writer and producer.

In 2014, Paolozza created Bad New Days to produce his own projects and explore his vision of a contemporary poetic theatre of gesture. This week, the company will premiere their new production of ITALIAN MIME SUICIDE in Toronto’s Theatre Centre.

Inspired by a 2003 newspaper headline, “Italian mime jumps off building claiming no one appreciates his art.” This new, full-length production is an exciting work of (mostly) silent theatre that sensitively explores levity within tragedy. With an aesthetic reminiscent of the kitsch iconography of clowns, mimes and world-weary circus acrobats.

The cast is comprised of four of Toronto’s most interesting physical performers, including Paolozza, Nicholas Eddie (MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM – Theatre Rusticle), Ericka Leobrera (YOUNG RUFFIANS – Shakespeare in the Ruff) and Robert Feetham (TALE OF A TOWN CANADA – Fixt Point).

ITALIAN MIME SUICIDE is co-directed by Bad New Days founder Paolozza, and long time collaborator Kari Pederson (THE STRANGER – DLT Experience/Daniele Bartolini). The original score, composed by Juno-nominated Arif Mirabdolbaghi, is performed live by virtuoso turntablist SlowPitchSound (aka Cheldon Paterson), with visual projections and design by interdisciplinary artist Evgenia Mikhaylova.

Paolozza spoke with me about his theatre training, the company, this new production of ITALIAN MIME SUICIDE, the need for creating and experiencing the arts during difficult times, and much more.

ITALIAN MIME SUICIDE starts its run at The Theatre Centre (Franco Boni Theatre) beginning April 21 to May 1 (opening night April 23). For more information and to reserve your Pay-What-You-Can-Afford tickets, please click here.

Poster credit: Omar David Rivero.