Interview : Essaï Altounian

Noé, The Force of Life, the musical, recently embarked on a two-month tour of China. This captivating production won over Chinese audiences with its universal message and inspiring artistic expression.

At a time when we are all questioning, more than ever, the conditions of our future, the story of Noah takes on a particular resonance. It reminds us of the importance of protecting our environment and reflecting on the consequences of our actions.

During the tour, Noé, The Force of Life was presented in several major Chinese cities, attracting large audiences and generating considerable enthusiasm. Spectators were deeply moved by the profound message conveyed by the production, while also being captivated by the staging, costumes, and music that bring this magnificent story to life.

The presence of Noé, The Force of Life in China is a perfect example of how art can transcend borders and touch hearts, while raising awareness of the crucial challenges facing the future of our planet. By bringing our voices together through art, we can inspire concrete action and help create positive change in the world.

Interview with

Essaï Altounian

Could you tell us about your show?

The show is called “Noah: The Force of Life.” It tells the universal story of Noah’s Ark: the story of a man who built an enormous ark to take his family and all the animals aboard, in order to save humanity from chaos and the Great Flood. This story marks the beginning of a new life and resonates remarkably strongly with the world we live in today.

With rising sea levels, global warming, conflicts, and wars, perhaps it is time to build a new Noah’s Ark. This is why we say that the show symbolizes the protection of our planet. UN Environment is a partner of our production.

We have been performing Noah: The Force of Life for three years and have welcomed more than 150,000 spectators. We have performed at the ParisLongchamp Racecourse in the 16th arrondissement, as well as at the Palais des Congrès.

Could you tell us about your tour in China?

This year, we went on a two-month tour of China, visiting seven cities. It was incredible to perform in some of the country’s largest theaters, and the enthusiasm of the audiences was palpable.

People were amazed by the music and the sets. We brought 50 French artists with us, along with our scenery, costumes, and animals. We created animals that look incredibly lifelike. When the lion appears on stage, for example, the audience feels as though they are looking at a real lion. This technique combines mechanics, electronics, and artistic performance.

The spectators are so emotionally moved that they come closer to the stage, cheering with excitement. They feel personally connected to the story and want to contribute to protecting the planet. They want to become part of this new Noah’s Ark, because everyone has a place on this Earth.

China is highly aware of environmental issues, and this story awakened something powerful in the audience. Experiencing it there was extraordinary because the story resonates in much the same way everywhere in the world.

Who is your partner in China?

We met an incredible production company, Ruijin Culture and Performing Arts Co., which is modern and ambitious. They took the bold step of bringing the show to China to celebrate 60 years of Franco-Chinese relations. It was very important to them to present a major French production to Chinese audiences.

I would like to thank them for their professionalism and expertise. Together, we created a genuine cultural bridge between France and China through this production. I hope we will have the opportunity to return, because China is a wonderful country.

Why did you create this show?

I created this show while thinking about the future of my two daughters. It has been an immense challenge that I have carried for the past four years. I have put all my heart and energy into it, hoping to contribute, in my own way, to protecting our planet.

Music has an incredible power to influence our lives. I therefore hope that this story will touch your hearts and inspire a renewed sense of humanity.