In April 2024, the Seelinger Arts Foundation staged the play L’Abribus, a bittersweet comedy created by Florence Foresti and Philippe Elno. Performed in Hong Kong on April 18, 19, and 20 under the direction of Agnès Seelinger, and featuring Alma Brami and Jean-Baptiste Peloux, this touching piece captivated the audience while serving a noble cause. All proceeds from the play were donated to Pour un Sourire d’Enfant (PSE), a charity dedicated to fighting child poverty in Cambodia through education.
A play that resonates
L’Abribus tells the improbable story of two characters who couldn’t be more different: a stressed, hypochondriac showbiz star and a peaceful beekeeper who loves the tranquility of nature. Forced to wait together under a bus shelter, their exchanges reveal two completely opposite worlds, but also deep similarities in their solitude.
An artistic and charitable commitment
The Seelinger Arts Foundation supported this production by directing the play free of charge, with the goal of raising as much money as possible for Pour un Sourire d’Enfant (PSE). This charity, active in Cambodia, helps thousands of children escape poverty by providing education and vocational training. All profits were donated to PSE, supporting their mission to give children a chance at a better future.
Why "L’Abribus"?
Agnès Seelinger, Artistic Director of the Seelinger Arts Foundation, explains her choice of this play: « I was moved by the encounter between these two characters, who are so different yet share a kind of loneliness. This theme of communication difficulties runs through much of my work. » The play, both funny and poignant, explores the dynamics between two people who are opposites but are brought together by fate.
A rewarding collaboration
Actors Alma Brami and Jean-Baptiste Peloux each found personal resonance in their roles. « Playing this character was a challenge that pushed me out of my comfort zone, » Alma Brami shared. Jean-Baptiste Peloux, on the other hand, connected deeply with the serenity and love of nature embodied by his character: « It’s a role that speaks to me, especially in a city as fast-paced as Hong Kong. »
An educational project with the French International School
In addition to the partnership with PSE, the Seelinger Arts Foundation collaborated with the French International School of Hong Kong. The play’s posters were created by 8th-grade students, and Agnès Seelinger worked with 11th graders to help them understand the behind-the-scenes aspects of theatrical production and prepare for their final oral exam.
With this production, the Seelinger Arts Foundation once again demonstrated that art can be a powerful force for solidarity, bringing together talent for an essential cause while offering the Hong Kong audience a memorable theatrical experience.
Source: Trait d’Union
