M’ap Boulé – Haitian Creole for “I’m on fire” – is a play with songs that tells the story of a child born of immigrants growing up in a country called Australia. It’s the story of Nancy Denis.

Told through re-enactments, original music, and poetry, Nancy recounts her exploration of intersectional identity framed by stories of the first black-led republic of Haiti when black Haitian slaves revolted against British and French colonists.

Directed by Anthea Williams and supported by lighting design by Karen Norris and costume/set design by Maitê Inaê, M’ap Boulé finds contrasting moments of struggle and hilarity through the true retelling of Nancy’s adolescence. This dramatic cabaret-style performance is relatable and accessible for audiences of all backgrounds. Nancy’s charming ability to find humour in the darkest of storylines provides continuous opportunities for connection with her viewers, quickly building rapport with light-hearted interaction. But the true centrepiece of this work is the music, developed with the late Carl St. Jacques. These songs not only showcase Nancy’s incredible vocal abilities but also reveal the deep emotion tied to this narrative, many of them songs of empowerment or self-love.

Supported by Victoria Falconer, Kween G and more, M’ap Boulé is a celebration of culture, connection, resistance and spirit. It is honest, witty and unapologetic, welcoming theatregoers to share in this search for self-acceptance.

About The Artist
Nancy Denis (pronounced deh-knee) is a bold multidisciplinary artist working across theatre, television, film and music. Her work spans Sydney Theatre Company, Belvoir, Ensemble Theatre and Hayes Theatre Company, with screen credits including ABC’s Cleverman, Netflix’s 600 Bottles of Wine and Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby.