Jury statement on "ABC – A Painters Alphabet" by Kompani Giraff (Sweden)

With "ABC – A Painters Alphabet" the FRATZ Festival is hosting a contemporary circus production for the first time. The audience enters a kind of painter's studio: white-draped walls, a paint-splattered stepladder, materials hinting at work in progress. Moments later, two performers in painter's overalls step into the space. Their assignment: to summon each and every letter of the latin alphabet – quite literally conjuring them into existence. They set to work with impressive precision and effortless artistry, following their mission with the focus, inner logic and playfulness that are also characteristic of children. The two juggle, dance and build amusing mechanical contraptions.

The alphabet gives the piece a playful dramaturgical framework that unfolds intuitively – whether or not one knows the letters. At the heart of the production lies a shared sense of wonder and delight in its many magical and surprising moments – when, for instance, a prince suddenly steps out of a painting, or a swan appears with a suitcase and a tulle skirt. Artistry, magic and elements of slapstick combine to create a witty and captivating piece for an intergenerational audience.