Willem Dafoe Takes the Stage at Venice Biennale Festival

VENICE, Italy — Willem Dafoe, a renowned actor known for his captivating performances, has embarked on a new journey as the artistic director of the Venice Biennale Theatre Festival. The event, which kicks off this month, promises a unique blend of experimental and avant-garde theatre, with Dafoe introducing cut-up plays and a reimagined version of *Pinocchio*.

Dafoe, 69, spoke during a video call from his home in Rome, reflecting on his passion for theatre on the anniversary of Shakespeare‘s birth. Addressing the significance of the day, he chuckled and remarked, “Ah, Shakespeare doesn’t care,” hinting at his complex relationship with the bard’s works. While he did not include any Shakespearean pieces in his Biennale lineup, Dafoe expressed a newfound interest in exploring his stories in the future.

Under the theme “Theatre is Body. Body is Poetry,” Dafoe’s festival will feature innovative works, including a *Pinocchio* directed by Davide Iodice, where young autistic actors and actors with Down syndrome will portray various aspects of the beloved character. The festival will also include Richard Foreman‘s *Symphony of Rats*, marking a European premiere that Dafoe views as a tribute to his late friend.

“Richard told them, ‘Do whatever you want with it. But I don’t want to recognize it,’” Dafoe shared, showcasing the spirit of experimentation that he aims to foster. He will take part in Foreman’s *No Title*, performing with Simonetta Solder while using random phrases, reminiscent of the cut-up technique popularized by writer William S. Burroughs.

Dafoe, a four-time Oscar nominee, is no stranger to the stage. He recalls his journey beginning in New York, where he became involved with the avant-garde Wooster Group, a theatre company he co-founded in the 1970s. Reflecting on his career, he mentioned, “I think I’ve given up on the idea of anyone getting me,” illustrating his continual evolution as an artist.

With his Venice Biennale directorial debut, Dafoe is dedicated to making theatre a lively conversation space. “Some of these pieces will sail, some won’t. What’s important is people talking about stuff, feeling that the theatre is alive,” he emphasized. The event not only showcases Dafoe’s artistic vision but reflects his commitment to bringing experimental theatre to the forefront.