Arctic Tall Tales

At the dawn of the 1950s, a small group of brave hunters are scattered along the coast of northeastern Greenland. Isolation, loneliness, regulation, harsh weather conditions… It is not easy to keep your composure in such conditions. Yet the vast wilderness, majestic snowy expanses and incredible stories of trusted companions awaken a longing for adventure and freedom. Are these stories true, false or myth? Who knows? One thing is certain: these extraordinary tales are sure to captivate everyone!

Arctic Tall Tales is based on the short stories of the Danish author Jørn Riel, in which he described his own incredible adventures in northeastern Greenland. The stories are full of humor and humanity, and have also been made into comic books. This time, however, they are seen in a larger-than-life version, where puppets, storytelling, music and soundscapes combine to create a world that is both boisterous and poetic.

The themes of the performance can be seen as having parallels with our modern times: isolation, loneliness, the endless stretching of time, limited resources, regulation, but also solidarity, helping, creativity, self-reliance and resilience. Now more than ever, it feels especially important to pay tribute and give voice to these true heroes of the Arctic.

La ruée vers l’or is an artist collective based in Quebec, specialising in puppet theatre productions where live music and sound effects play a central role. The collective’s performances are aimed at adults and young people. Its work draws inspiration from genre films, comics, object theatre and storytelling. The productions are dynamic and engaging, inviting the audience to participate while combining aesthetic sensitivity with generous humour and humanity.