Daniel Buren's Abstract Visuals Transform Babar Stage Show

The Théâtre du Jardin d'Acclimatation in Paris presents 'L'histoire de Babar le petit éléphant' from March 26 to May 4, 2008, as the inaugural event of artpress's new 'artpress kids' section. Directed by Adrien de Van, the production features actress Mathilde Hennekinne reciting and choreographing the text, accompanied by pianist Christophe Buren performing Francis Poulenc's scores. The stage is adorned with vertically striped banners by Daniel Buren, the pianist's father, known for his 'Les Deux Plateaux' sculpture at the Palais-Royal. A video projection by Buren displays geometric forms that interact with the narrative: circles evoke soap bubbles during Babar's bath, a red stain spreads when his mother is killed, and raindrops suggest the Old Lady's tears. Buren includes references to Mark Rothko and Russian Constructivism. The show introduces children to abstract art's poetic potential. Five-year-old Jean asked why Babar never appeared.