‘Botticelli in the Fire’ in Calgary collides centuries to reflect today’s reality

Downstage is bringing Botticelli in the Fire to Calgary’s Big Secret Theatre, blending Renaissance Florence, 1990s queer club culture, and contemporary life into one world in “a wild ride.”

The play is rooted in the creation of “The Birth of Venus” and the political tensions surrounding the Medici family. It is written by Jordan Tannehill, who director Clare Preuss calls “one of the most incredible gems of Canadian artistry.”

The script moves between timelines as it follows Sandro Botticelli, Lorenzo de’ Medici, and the preacher Savonarola.

Preuss says the story links their power struggles to modern pressures on artists and vulnerable communities.

“It’s something that I feel like we can really relate to right now and kind of questioning, like, what do we value as a society? And who do we hold in esteem? And how do we keep those most vulnerable safe amidst different political and religious inklings,” she said.

The show mashes timelines, characters check their phones, drive cars, and speak in a way audiences will recognize. At the same time, the costumes by Rebecca Toon mix Renaissance silhouettes with 90s streetwear.

Musically, the show features a score by Maddie Bautista, which mixes Renaissance choral styles with EDM and 90s pop, Preuss says.

She says the biggest challenge was to stay focused as she researched both Renaissance Florence and New York’s 90s club scene.

“The hardest part is not getting sucked down all the millions of rabbit holes you can get sucked down because it’s so interesting.”

She says the mashup of eras creates enough distance for audiences to reflect on current events.

“It gives us a step back from like just reading the news or watching TV and kind of hearing all the updated, constant news that’s going on around the world. And it just allows us to focus on the emotional truth of things,” Preuss said.

The director calls the production “sumptuous” and says the cast brings huge range and intensity, adding, “I feel so lucky to work with every single person on this team.”

Botticelli in the Fire runs at the Big Secret Theatre from March 4 to 14, presented by Downstage with support from Hit and Myth Productions. More information, including how to get tickets, is on the Downstage website.