Zen-sations
A Zen master has a reputation of being imperturbable. His student monks decide to put him to the test. This is the first time Zen stories have been adapted for the stage.“These ‘sketches’ each have a moral, a type of punchline, that have the aim of bringing the thinking mind to a stop, similar to Zen meditation, when one can then experience direct ‘oneness’ with our Inner Self.
donate
donate
video content
SYNOPSIS
A Zen master has a reputation for being imperturbable. His student monks decide to put him to the test.
Crafted as a collection of sketches, these tales draw from ancient Zen wisdom, passed through generations. Set in serene temples, monasteries, and rustic landscapes, they feature monks, masters, a professor, a Samurai, and a humble stone-cutter.
Each story unfolds with a moment of profound insight, where characters grasp the truth about their situations and their own selves. Through simple yet powerful narratives, these sketches invite reflection on mindfulness and self-awareness, echoing the timeless teachings of Zen.
The video below is a documentary about the journey of the production.
Specifications
Type of show
Actors’ theatre, English, suitable for all ages
Running time
50 minutes
Actors on stage
6 actors.
Minimum technical requirements
8 x 6 m stage space, two wings, mains electricity, but can even be performed on smaller stages
Lighting
Full lighting rig.
Get in
Access is required from 10 am on the day of performance.
Set Strike time
One hour.
Cost
On request
people
Author
Nicholas Granby and Ivan Ottaviani, based on Zen stories
Director
Nicholas Granby
Original Cast
Zen Master / Stone Cutter - Nicholas Granby
Monk Apprentice / Samurai / Narrator - Ivan Ottaviani
Monk - Giovanni Garattini
Samurai Aide /Monk - Nicolas Veneri
Professor / Monk - Valerio Tagliacarne
Lady at the River / Nun - Patrizia Savona
Costumes and Make Up
Tanya Artimuik & Cristina Bennet
Review quotes
Theatre of Eternal Values presents their tales of Zen monks with wit and panache.
In this theatrical equivalent to the Little Book of Zen Wisdom, the highly polished Theatre of Eternal Values presents their tales of Zen monks with wit and panache. A snappy pace and tight direction lead to a fun 50 minutes – though I suspect enlightenment itself probably takes a little longer. Recommended for those who like to sit on their ankles.
The Scotsman, 19.Aug.2004
Escape the Festival! Let a group of monks take you to a higher level.
Escape the Festival! Let a group of monks take you to a higher level. Don’t worry that a play about Zen sounds a bit, well, new-agey, this team from Italy perform ancient tales of Zen with so much enthusiasm and good-humour that it is impossible not to enjoy it. It also reveals some wise truths about human nature. Simply put together using a brilliant cast, basic props and the audience’s imagination this play makes you think, and it makes you laugh, a lot. Go along and be surprised. Zen really wasn’t my kind of thing, now, it just might be.
Three Weeks, 07.Aug.2004
performance history
(country, theatres)
07 - 21/08/2004
Fringe Festival
Alba Theatre
Cowgate Central at Wilikie House,
Edinburgh, Scotland
