« Non nova, sed nove »

During this meeting, Phia Menard talks about her practice, the founding of her company “Non nova, sed nove”, her precept “We don't invent anything, we just see it differently”, and her latest shows. This meeting is part of the « Troubles, alliances et esthétiques » chair coordinated by Fabrice Bourlez and Madeleine Planeix-Crocker.

Phia Ménard is artistic director and performer of the Compagnie Non Nova, which she founded in Nantes in 1998 with the desire to take a different look at the apprehension of juggling, its scenic and dramaturgical treatment. 

“Non nova, sed nove” (We do not invent anything; we see it differently) is a founding precept. In 2008, she initiated a research process entitled “I.C.E” for “Injonglability Complementary of the Elements”, which consists of a creative, intellectual and imaginative approach around the notion of transformation, erosion or sublimation of natural materials such as ice, water, wind... and their interactions with human, physical or mental behaviour. His shows are presented on the French stages and around the world in more than 50 countries. In January 2014, she was promoted to the rank of Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.

Photo credit: © Patrick Garçon