La Reine Ninja is a theatre company specializing in long-form improvisation. Founded in 2017 by Montreal-based actress Maylina Gauthier, La Reine has since been joined by actors Jonathan Leduc and Philippe Gougeon, as well as actress Sophie Grenier. Each month, the company presents one of its two improv-based shows: Arène and Bravade.
I have been lucky enough to be a part of la Reine’s live show as a musician since December 2023. I have been active in the improv world for more than 15 years as an actor, but never as a live musician, so it is definitely a refreshing and fun experience for me. During a show, I use Ableton, a small MIDI keyboard and mixer, and my vast collection of musical loops, field recordings and one-shots to actively influence the story on stage and react to the actor’s actions and intentions. I actively listen to what is happening on stage so I can do what is right for the story at that moment, whether that means playing a tribal drum loop to convey a sense of danger and urgency, a forest field recording to better set the physical space where the story occurs, or simply playing a ringing phone sample to force the actors into action. I always see myself as the fifth protagonist in these 100% improvised shows, and it is a great joy to play with such talented artists!
Visit la Reine Ninja’s website and Facebook page for more info on upcoming shows!
