In Development: Behind the Smile
“Humour And Sensuality Are At The Heart Of Boca del Lupo“
The Georgia Straight Newspaper
Behind the Smile
Behind the Smile is a collaboration between Boca del Lupo and Goblin Party. At its core the project explores the paradoxical world of mascots—those vibrant, oversized symbols of joy and celebration often found at events brimming with excitement and innocence. Yet, beneath the surface of their playful appearances, these mascots bear the brunt of unforeseen aggression, particularly from children.
Drawing on wildly entertaining mascot tropes from amusement parks, sporting events, and stadium shows; Behind the Smile pairs Goblin Party’s rigorous approach to contemporary dance with Boca del Lupo’s expertise in visual storytelling, technical integration and international collaboration. Hysterical and heartfelt, the project also investigates the broader societal tendencies to misunderstand and mistreat those who are perceived as different.
Led by Sherry J Yoon, Co-Artistic Director of Boca del Lupo and a first-generation Korean Canadian, Behind the Smile draws on Yoon’s personal insights and experiences. She illuminates the broader theme of the project, peeling back the veneers and revealing the challenges faced by those pressured to moderate their identity behind the smile.
“Creating this piece with the explosive movements of Goblin Party blended with the hilarity and heartbreak of mascots, the audacious costumes, storytelling and technical integration brought in by the collaborators, it’s been a joy to play and create within the juxtaposing tension of entertainment and revelation. The workroom is such a generative place. I’m thrilled to be developing this piece with such talented artists and look forward to presenting this work to both our communities.”
Sherry J Yoon, Co-Artistic Director
Development Timeline
- May 2023 First Meeting of Collaborators (Seoul)
- May 2024 Development Workshop (Seoul)
- November 2024 Design and Story Workshop (Vancouver)
- January 2025 Pitch at PuSh (Vancouver)
- May 2025 Choreography Workshop (Seoul)
- October 2025 Production Workshop (Vancouver)
*Ready for Final Rehearsal, Premiere and Touring in 2027