The performance explores themes of resistance and risk, where limits exist but are constantly challenged. Inspired by Heinrich von Kleist’s On the Marionette Theatre, NORMA also reflects on Portugal’s history of eugenics, particularly the now-closed Albergue da Mitra (shut down in 1960).
Eugenics was a set of beliefs and practices aimed at controlling human reproduction to "improve" the population by promoting certain traits while eliminating others. Rooted in the idea that some people were biologically superior to others, eugenics often led to the forced institutionalization, sterilization, and exclusion of those deemed unfit—such as the disabled, the poor, and other marginalized groups. In Portugal, institutions like Albergue da Mitra played a role in this system by segregating individuals considered outside the norm.
By confronting this history,
CREDITS
Artistic Direction
Diana Niepce
Performers
Diana Niepce, Eríc Amorim dos Santos, Lucas Damiani, Rebecca Mateus, Sara Garcia, Tarlie Lumby
Sound
Diogo Melo
Costume Design
Silvana Ivaldi
Technical Direction & Lighting Design
Roger Madureira
Dramaturgical Support
Rui Catalão
Movement Support
Ana Sofia Leite, Joãozinho da Costa
Production
Joana Costa Santos
Illustration
Maria Abrantes
Pre-Production
Produção d’Fusão
Co-Production
As Niepce’s, Teatro Nacional D. Maria II
Residency Co-Production
O Espaço do Tempo
OPART
E.P.E / Estúdios Victor Córdon
Support
República Portuguesa – Cultura / DGARTES
Goethe-Institut