A bunch of blue faces began occupying the stage of the Venetian Theatre several days ago. The world-renowned show “Blue Man Group” has already captivated the imaginations many in Macau, allowing audiences to experience one of the craziest, funniest and most entertaining performances around.
In an interview with CLOSER, Phil Stanton, Co-found of the Blue Man Group detailed how he and his partners conceived this amazing concept and cultivated it into one of the most popular shows in the world.
“The three of us are close friends who shared common interests in many varied areas such as art and philosophy, as well as science and technology”, Stanton says. “Chris (Chris Wink, one of the Co-founders) had been a drummer in bands, but was also interested in acting – I had studied acting but had also dabbled in a few musical instruments – Matt (Matt Goldman, one of the Co-founders) knew something about business and how to get a project off the ground, and was also ready to learn just about anything else he could.”
Equipped with knowledge in various fields, the three wanted to start a performance project that would include all of their interests. In an era when the Internet and digital technology had just started to gain momentum, they became interested in what about as human beings would NOT change.
“It seemed to us there was something about creativity, curiosity and our need for community that would endure. The Blue Man character came about as a way to explore and celebrate those enduring human needs.”
Phil recalls that they did not view anything as a real challenge during the commencing period, as they “were so inspired and excited by the opportunity to create a show”. “But, I suppose we had some uncertainty about whether or not this character and this show would resonate for other people.”
But that sense of doubt turned out to be unfounded. “We were amazed when people kept showing up, coming back, bringing friends. And those people told us time and time again how they saw themselves in the Blue Man character. We hadn’t dared to dream that we would strike such an emotional chord with people, but we are very thankful that we did! We have come to realize that we have similarities as human beings and it feels necessary to celebrate those human qualities we all share. I think the show tries to do that.”
Phil believes that what appeals to the audiences the most about the Blue Man is its celebration of the basic human need to express creativity, as well as our need to connect with each other. “I think of the Blue Man as an ‘everyman’ and he helps us to see how we are all more alike than we might realize.”
Regarding their show in Macau, the Co-founder hopes the audiences here will respond in a positive way and can feel the celebration of humanity that the show is trying to achieve. “We’d love for them all to be filled with joy and elation.”
After the performance in Venetian, the group will continue their tour in other Guangzhou, Beijing and Shanghai.
