A puppet, for example, is just a piece of wood, a couple of rivets, but put them together, and if you know how to do it, and the audience's imagination joins in with this, then a miracle will come out of that machine. That is what we and the audience do in the theatre - we create miracles in that space.

The quote "A puppet, for example, is just a piece of wood, a couple of rivets, but put them together, and if you know how to do it, and the audience's imagination joins in with this, then a miracle will come out of that machine. That is what we and the audience do in the theatre - we create miracles in that space" by Robert Lepage explores the collaborative nature of performance and the transformative power of imagination. Lepage, a renowned Canadian playwright and director, highlights how something as simple as a puppet, when manipulated with skill and creativity, can come to life in the minds of the audience. He emphasizes that the magic of the theatre lies not only in the skill of the performers and the mechanics of the production, but also in the audience's active participation through their imagination.

Lepage’s statement suggests that theatre is a dynamic, interactive experience where the audience is not just a passive observer but an active participant in the creation of meaning and miracles. The puppet, a seemingly lifeless object, is brought to life through the creativity of the performer and the imagination of the audience. This mutual engagement between actor and spectator is what makes theatre unique; it is the collective power of both the performers’ craft and the audience’s willingness to engage with the imagined world that creates a transformative experience.

The origin of this quote comes from Lepage's broader philosophy on theatre as a space where reality and imagination intersect. Known for his innovative work in stage design and multimedia performance, Lepage often pushes the boundaries of conventional theatre. This quote reflects his belief that theatre is a collaborative art form that thrives on imagination, both from the creators and the audience. He views the stage as a space where the impossible can become possible, much like a miracle unfolding before the audience’s eyes.

Ultimately, Lepage’s quote underscores the power of imagination in the creative process. In the theatre, the materials (like a puppet or a set) are just the beginning; it is the imagination of both the performer and the audience that breathes life into the performance. By recognizing this interaction, Lepage celebrates the unique, magical nature of theatre, where both sides—creators and spectators—come together to create something that transcends the physical world and becomes a shared, miraculous experience.