Produced by Ruxandra Cantir, Pickled Republic presents a world of food rich in metaphor, incorporating dance, drama, physical performance and musical theatre.
Pickled Republic imagines what everyday foods would say and do if they were conscious. Foods are given distinct personalities and actions based on how humans treat them. Canned tomatoes are sad and jealous because they are constantly overlooked in favour of fresh tomatoes. Potatoes are confident stars, reflecting their versatility in countless dishes.
What makes Pickled Republic unique is its reimagining of the familiar kitchen and the food in our daily lives. These bold imaginings are not baseless but reflect real-world issues of human character and desires for life. States like loneliness, social anxiety and shyness are presented to the audience in a humorous and absurd manner. They use comedic humour to resolve the problems of life.
Ruxy Cantir uses different techniques on different foods. The actors’ vocal versatility is astonishing. The rough voice of the potato contrasts charmingly with the cute voice of the carrot. It makes the audience feel compelled to open the lid and set the pickle free when they hear the shrill sound of the pickle clown tapping on the glass jar.
The props are rich in realistic detail. When the potato first takes the stage, it is fresh and confident, with only a small sprout on its head. When it returns, the sprout has miraculously grown longer. The pickle’s headpiece features highly realistic textures and protrusions, making it look delicious.
The actors interact closely with the front-row audience. When the actors gaze passionately into your eyes, the audience can’t help but laugh out loud. The sign language actor doesn’t just translate the dialogue. They perform along with the plot, showcasing many comical physical movements. They ensure everyone enjoys the joyful experience.
Pickled Republic is a funny, metaphor-filled world centred around the food we are familiar with.
