From Vision to Reality: Faraz Khan Discusses the Artistic Journey of La Compagnie
In this insightful interview, Faraz Khan takes us behind the scenes of La Compagnie, a theater company renowned for its innovative storytelling. He reflects on the creative challenges, the vision that drives the company, and the artistic processes that shape its unique productions.
Khan shares his personal journey, the collaborative spirit within the company, and his passion for pushing artistic boundaries.
What inspired you to start La Compagnie Dramatique, and what was your vision when founding the company?
Faraz Khan: La Compagnie Dramatique was born from our deep love for theatre and storytelling, and a desire to keep this timeless art form alive in an era dominated by electronic media.
Theatre’s ability to create live, shared experiences offers something uniquely powerful that other mediums can’t replicate.
Our vision was to use theatre to tell bold, experimental stories that wouldn’t feel as impactful in film or TV. We want to push boundaries, spark dialogue and harness the raw, intimate power of live performance to engage audiences in ways only theatre can.
How do you approach the creative process when selecting plays or developing new performances for La Compagnie Dramatique?
Faraz Khan: Our creative process begins with a close observation of the world around us. We pay attention to current events, cultural trends and the narratives shaped by legacy and digital media. This helps us stay relevant and ensure that our work resonates with contemporary audiences.
We also prioritize dialogue with our peers and audiences, valuing their perspectives and insights. Theatre is a collaborative art form and these conversations often spark ideas and inform the stories we choose to tell.
Reading widely is another cornerstone of our process. From books and plays to novels and journals, immersing ourselves in diverse material is vital for discovering fresh ideas and deepening our understanding of the world—something every theatre company should embrace.
What do you think sets La Compagnie Dramatique apart from other theatre companies, both in terms of the productions and the overall experience you offer audiences?
Faraz Khan: Our commitment to the stories we tell truly sets us apart. Once we decide to bring a story to life, we approach it with uncompromising dedication and intensity—we don’t hold back. If we’re in, we’re all in.
Our strong work ethic also defines us. Theatre is a collaborative art form rooted in community, and we strive to uphold values like respect, accountability and mutual support in every aspect of our work.
This commitment extends to the experience we offer our audiences—immersive, thought-provoking performances that leave a lasting impact.
Theatre is an ever-evolving art form. How do you stay ahead of trends and ensure your productions remain relevant and engaging for contemporary audiences?
Faraz Khan: We stay connected to the global and local theatre landscape by following and studying the work of theatre makers and companies doing innovative and meaningful work. Understanding what our peers are exploring helps us remain informed and inspired while carving our own path.
We also push the boundaries of what theatre as a form can offer. Whether through unconventional storytelling, immersive staging, or experimenting with the audience’s role in the performance, we strive to keep our work fresh, engaging and reflective of the world we live in.
What role do you believe theatre plays in society today, and how does La Compagnie Dramatique contribute to that role?
Faraz Khan: Theatre continues to play the same vital role it has for thousands of years: bringing people together to “listen” and “feel” as a collective.
Unlike film, which is primarily a visual medium, theatre demands active listening from its audience, creating a shared experience that’s both intimate and immediate.
At La Compagnie Dramatique, we embrace this tradition with a deep appreciation for Marshall McLuhan’s medievalist perspective, emphasizing the power of the spoken word.
We strive to keep this oral tradition alive, using theatre as a space to preserve and celebrate the art of storytelling in its purest, most human form.
Collaboration is often key in theatre. How do you foster a creative and supportive environment for actors, directors, and other collaborators at La Compagnie Dramatique?
Faraz Khan:: Open Communication and Shared Vision: We prioritize open dialogue at every stage of the creative process.
By encouraging collaborators to share their ideas, concerns, and interpretations freely, we create a space where everyone feels valued. Developing a shared vision ensures that every contributor feels connected to the project’s goals.
Workshops and Playful Exploration: Before rehearsals, we often organize workshops and improvisation sessions.
These serve as a low-pressure way for collaborators to experiment, connect, and discover new perspectives on the material. This playful exploration helps build trust and unlocks creative potential in the group.
What advice would you give to young, aspiring theatre makers who want to create their own company or pursue a career in the performing arts?
Faraz Khan: Be fearless. Don’t be afraid to step onto the stage and say something that truly matters to you. Theatre thrives on authenticity and boldness, so let your voice and passion shine through.
Also, embrace the fact that you will make mistakes—and that’s okay. You’ll likely feel foolish at times, but that’s part of the process.
Theatre is a space for growth, where you hone your craft and develop into a skilled performer or creator. It takes time, patience and persistence, but the journey is worth it.
Faraz Khan’s journey with La Compagnie highlights the power of creativity, collaboration, and vision. His commitment to bold, thought-provoking theater continues to inspire, as the company grows and evolves, making its mark on the cultural landscape.
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