Crystal Hearts: A Sensory Journey into the Soul
Sofia, Bulgaria
What if theatre wasn’t something you just watched, but something you lived? That is what Atelier Plasteline’s collective presented to its public with “Crystal Hearts” in the middle of October, 2024, in Sofia, Bulgaria, in cooperation with OECON Group Bulgaria. It was not a performance in the traditional sense – it was an experience, an immersive journey that invited its audience to step into a world of emotions, memories, and dreams. Created with means of the unique Sensory Labyrinth Theatre, this performance took its viewers far beyond the conventional stage, deep into the unexplored landscapes of their own hearts and minds.
Atelier Plastelin is one of Sofia’s longest-standing independent spaces for experimental art, with its people constantly searching for diverse and challenging works, united by the taste for the unknown and the search for new artistic horizons. Their “Crystal Hearts” turn spectators from passive observers to active participants, embarking on a deeply personal journey. The performance unfolds like an intricate maze, where every turn reveals a new sensation, every moment immerses the senses, and every encounter leaves an imprint on the soul.
The story follows a quest to protect a mystical spring—the source of all life energy. To do so, the audience, transformed into “explorers,” must travel through the four seasons of the Forest of Emotions. Along the way, they rediscover the innocence and clarity of childhood, reconnecting with nature, themselves, and each other. Every scent, sound, and touch resonates deeply, evoking emotions long forgotten or buried under the weight of daily life.
Unlike traditional theatre, “Crystal Hearts” does not end with applause. Instead, audience members are invited to leave behind something far more valuable – words of reflection and gratitude. A simple book replaces the ovation, filled with messages that capture the profound impact of the journey:
“Thank you for this journey, a magical experience into the recesses of my soul and imagination.”
“The child in me is joyful and dreaming. Dreams come true. My crystal heart dances in the lightness.”
“Thank you for the opportunity to fix, change and make what you want come true.”
These words, written by those who embarked on the journey, reflect the depth of transformation that this performance ignites. It is not just a story told, but it is a shared human experience, a space where reality bends, emotions surface, and souls are touched, truly measuring the success of “Crystal Hearts”.
Photo credits: Atelier Plastelin
