Shirono Ballon tells the story of Ryu, a young man who defies family expectations by leaving Japan and the predetermined path set by his father to forge his own destiny. We follow his slow progression into the world of the circus, guided by his introspection and deep quest for meaning. To bring his dream to life, Ryu shapes his reality through self-reflection, meaningful interactions with key figures from his past, new encounters, and, most importantly, by fully exploring his physical talents. He expresses himself through juggling, striking displays of strength, pushing the body’s limits on a vertical pole, and balancing precarious objects, always on the verge of collapse. Ryunosuke Yamazumi draws inspiration from his own journey to deliver a profoundly human portrait, infused with poetry and humor, within an intercultural Québec. Shirono Ballon is a story about reconciliation—with the past and with oneself.
Duration: 75 minutes
Watch teaser on YouTube
Ryunosuke Yamazumi – Artist, author, music composer, and production director
Mathieu Gauthier – Actor
Pierre Philippe Guay – Co-author and director
Andréanne Lafleur Caouette – Assistant director and stage manager
Elena Stupa – Set and costume designer
Kevin McCoy – Artistic advisor
Jean-François Labbé – Lighting designer
Great thanks to: CALQ, CAC et Centre R.I.R.E 2000