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Same Difference is an immersive mixed-media installation and digital performance examining themes of identity and belonging. Led by David Mesiha, the piece utilizes mirrors, immersive projection and surround sound to bathe, and at times plunge, audiences into every shifting cognitive and spacial perspective.
Drawing on the experiences of immigrants and refugees, the piece invites audiences to deconstruct perceptions of identities and to explore the tensions between individuality through difference and belonging through sameness. How much sameness and difference do we need to feel like we belong?
Same Difference premiered April 19, 2022 at the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts.
It will have its Toronto premiere February 15-25 2023 at The Theatre Centre. -
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The piece continues development of projection techniques first developed by David Mesiha and Parjad Sharifi in Leaky Heaven’s 2011 Project (X).
Development of the project took place at Theatre Conspiracy with contributions from a large team during early development phases.
Early Development Contributors include Ashley Bodiguel, Jivesh Parasram, Gavan Cheema, Tim Carlson, Parjad Sharifi with performances by Celia Aloma and Ilana Zackon. -
Concept, Projection Design, Sound Design and Project Lead: David Mesiha
Projection Co-Design and Co-Development: Milton Lim
Dramaturgy and Co-Development: Tim Carlson
Dramaturgy and Co-Development: Gavan Cheema
Dramaturgy, Performance and Co-Development: Aryo Khakpour
Additional video performances by: Celia Aloma & Ilana Zackon
Special thanks to early collaboration and development team Ashley Bodiguel, Jivesh Parasram, Parjad Sharifi, performers Celia Aloma, Ilana Zackon, and soprano Neema Bickersteth.
