appConfigEntityId

bodyType

customContents

entityId

entityUuid

isVideo

articlePageQuery

article

articleSchemaContent

content

hooksArticlePageAdvertisementConfigArticle

hooksArticlePageFloatingButtonConfigArticle

appConfig

filter

json

liveArticle

Mathias Woo

Q. Do you think the audience base for experimental theatre has expanded in the past 10 years?

A. Not really. But, then again, we don't expect to appeal to everyone. Our audience base still consists mainly of young people and professionals in the design and advertising industries. They come to our productions to get ideas and stimulation.

Q. What was it that attracted you to architecture and then theatre?

A. I took up architecture because it is a discipline that is unlike most fields. Architecture is very pluralistic, it deals with concepts that are tangible and intangible, and it trains your sense of sensitivity. These principles also apply to theatre, so the move was quite a natural one for me.

Q. Do you see a common thread?

A. Theatre and architecture deal with the same fundamentals and constraints - time, space and resources.

Q. You have worked with Zuni Icosahedron for over 10 years. Why?

A. I like its structure, it is not too rigid. It provides a great platform for a group of very passionate people to get together and explore with open minds.

Q. How do you see Danny Yung, Zuni's artistic director?

A. I learn a great deal from him. He is very willing to share and to try different possibilities. Our relationship is built on mutual respect. He is the artistic director but I don't feel like he is the boss.

Q. Why a production based on Louis I Kahn?

A. I am very interested in his philosophy. He starts with a practical foundation but he doesn't neglect the spirituality in his work. Norman Forster, who designed the Chek Lap Kok airport, draws a lot of inspiration from Kahn.

Q. How do you view the concept of space in architecture versus space in theatre?

A. Space in architecture is static and space in theatre is constantly changing.

Q. Your production relies heavily on video and musical special effects. Does it neglect the role of actors?

A. I don't see it that way. I take a 'total theatre approach' in my work, meaning that I am trying to achieve an overall effect. Actors are very important elements but they are not the only elements of my plays.

Q. You seem to be very particular about the music that you choose. Anyone in particular you like working with?

A. I especially enjoy working with Yu Yat-yin and Jason Choi, they have a wealth of music knowledge and they are not afraid to experiment.

The Life And Times Of Louis I Kahn, presented by Zuni Icosahedron, tonight, tomorrow and Sunday night at Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre. Tickets from Urbtix.

