Theatre in Palm in Reggio Emilia: A journey of creativity, friendship and self-discovery
Residencies and labs are always an opportunity to step beyond the familiar, immerse yourself in new experiences, and meet inspiring people. But the project Theatre in Palm in Reggio Emilia, where we worked on the play “What We Will Leave Behind”, became a truly special event for me. It wasn’t just another project in my career—it was a moment that divided my life into “before” and “after.”
But let’s start from the beginning.
The first and very important aspect for me was the freedom we were given during the residency. There were no strict boundaries or mandatory themes. We could choose any format—from a play to a film, from a performance to an installation. After some discussions, we settled on the format of a play consisting of individual sketches. Each participant could interpret the theme “What We Will Leave Behind” in their own way and create a personal statement. This approach turned out to be perfect. Each of us brought something unique, and at the same time, all the segments blended together organically, creating a cohesive picture. The theme of the play was so universal that every audience member could find something close to their heart in it.
The second, equally important aspect of the residency was the perfect selection of participants. It was so well-thought-out that it still feels like a miracle to me. Each of us was a unique individual, yet we felt like a single entity. They were not only talented professionals, but also amazing people who were easy and pleasant to work with. We shared ideas, supported each other, and inspired one another. Even after the residency ended, we stayed in touch. It’s a rare case when professional collaboration turns into genuine friendship. I’m still grateful to fate for bringing these people into my life.
And thirdly, this residency became one of the most significant experiences of my life. I’ve participated in 28 labs and residencies, but this project gave me an incredible push forward. It was my most important step in both professional and personal growth.
It all started with an intense week of work. We worked every day: brainstorming, rehearsing, creating sketches. I was full of energy and initiative, but with each passing day, it became harder to keep going. My energy was running out, and my brain was practically “boiling” from the high level of English required. The thing is, the residency was conducted in super-professional, idea-driven English. Although I had previous experience of touring with a theatre and performing in English, this residency required a different level. We discussed big ideas and philosophical questions, worked with metaphors, symbols, and played with words and minds. By the end of the week, I felt completely drained. Then, after a week of intense work, a new project leader—director Mark—joined us. He proposed a new idea for our play, but I found it extremely difficult to grasp. In the creative process, ideas and images emerge spontaneously, and sometimes they’re hard to catch even in your native language. And here it was happening in English, which I don’t speak perfectly.
I felt lost. At the end of the working day, I asked our assistant to stay behind and explain everything to me individually. It was Friday; I was exhausted, but I needed to understand. We sat down, and I still remember the moment when it suddenly clicked in my mind. I fully understood Mark’s idea. It was so complex and yet so beautiful that I cried.
That moment became a turning point for me. I discovered a new horizon, a new facet of myself. Over the weekend, I mentally recharged and, full of pride and inspiration, started a new working week.
I fell in love with this residency with all my heart. For the small but cozy town that became our home during the project. For my fellow artists, who became not just colleagues but friends. For our mentors, who were so understanding and supportive that working with them was a true pleasure.
And, of course, for the opportunity to be part of the Theatre in Palm project. It was a unique chance, the kind that maybe comes once in a lifetime. I’m grateful for every moment spent at the residency, for every lesson I learned, and for the people who made this experience so special.
The residency reminded me that art is not just about creativity—it’s about overcoming yourself, searching for new horizons, and about what we leave behind. And what we leave behind, first and foremost, are our ideas, emotions, memories, and the good deeds that can change the world for the better.
Article by Asia Yakauleva
