Willem Dafoe Takes Bold Step as Artistic Director of Venice Biennale

VENICE, Italy — Willem Dafoe is set to captivate audiences as the new artistic director of the Venice theatre biennale, with innovative plans for the festival’s future. His unique vision focuses on experimental works and avant-garde performances, steering away from traditional narratives and classic play productions.

Sitting in his home in Rome, amid an eclectic backdrop, Dafoe, 69, expresses his excitement and intentions for the festival. Speaking in April, coinciding with the anniversary of William Shakespeare‘s birth and death, he highlights his disdain for conventional presentations of Shakespeare’s works. “There’s a lot of pointing and indicating when people perform them. Those are things I don’t think are very vital,” he says while contemplating possible adaptations of Shakespeare that intrigue him.

The festival, titled “Theatre is Body. Body is Poetry,” will offer diverse art forms, including the European premiere of Symphony of Rats by the late playwright Richard Foreman, whom Dafoe admired deeply. Dafoe plans to include works directed by renowned directors like Thomas Ostermeier and Milo Rau, pushing the boundaries of traditional theatre. There is even a unique version of Pinocchio, featuring autistic actors and those with Down syndrome, directed by Davide Iodice.

Reflecting on his long history in experimental theatre, Dafoe reminisces about his time with the Wooster Group. He reveals how he began his journey in New York at age 22 and the deep connections he formed within the city’s artistic community. “I think I’ve given up on the idea of anyone getting me,” he confesses, emphasizing the importance of reinventing oneself through various projects.

Dafoe’s passion for the stage is evident, as he describes the ephemeral beauty of theatre moments that cannot be replicated. “Theatre puts your feet to the fire, it puts your finger in the wound,” he says, portraying his belief in the visceral impact of live performances. As he takes charge of the Venice Biennale, audiences can anticipate a transformative and reflective experience, as Dafoe unfolds his artistic vision.

“Some of these pieces will sail, some won’t,” Dafoe concludes, highlighting his commitment to keep theatre alive through discussion and exploration of new ideas.