Imperium is an extraordinary theatrical experience developed by director Jurgen Muller and his company La Fura Dels Baus. Formed in the 1980s, Fura has developed from street theater into a creative group with its own theatrical language, which they call “Furan Language.” "Furan Language,” according to their website, is characterized by use of non-conventional spaces; multidisciplinary scenic language based on predominance of body and technology; invasion of the intimate space of the spectator; a theme that focuses on the conflicts between individuals and the group.”

Imperium, which recently played in Milan and is now touring through the rest of Italy, premiered in Beijing in 2007. The piece examines the relationship between two individuals, societies, or entities that attempt to dominate, subjugate, or destroy anyone who doesn’t march in step with their imperialistic imperatives. It was a powerful presentation to behold in Italy, stirring up the swirling audience as the performers moved, pushed, and attacked their way through the crowd, pushing around platforms where various forms of gruesome imperialistic acts were being acted out.

Particularly effective was the use of grain (or rice) as a means of exploiting and overwhelming any adversaries. Whether they were starving someone, or force-feeding some poor citizen, given the current international food crisis, that form of exploitation rang true. I can only imagine the response in Beijing!

All this is performed by some brave women who must go through all sorts of physical efforts, paint their nude breasts, and whip each other as they force their way through the crowd. Seeing women going through this plays on one's perceptions of women as accommodating figures in the landscape of humanity.

The crowd played a major role in this “entertainment” as they took sides, were showered with rice and occasionally beaten, and ultimately turned into a mob with the appropriate mob mentality. It was an exhausting, powerful experience for all who came to witness and partake in this “Furan Language." You can learn more about this troupe and their touring schedule at La Fura Dels Baus.