Carol Lamport, singer and vocal coach: “Slowing down could solve many things”
Tell us about ZAMETROTAR.
This project was born five years ago, almost intuitively. It all began with dreams. I would wake up with fragments of melodies and song titles in my mind. At first, I wrote songs without considering a stage production. Gradually, a sense of coherence emerged. The project developed a strong autobiographical dimension. I then infused it with more poetry, romance, and fantasy. The central character, “She,” can represent any woman at different stages of her life.
ZAMETROTAR explores themes related to mental health. Why this choice?
These themes are directly linked to my personal experience. In recent years, I have gone through difficult times, particularly through therapy, while also supporting my husband who suffers from bipolar disorder. Mental health remains an often invisible and still taboo subject. Yet it affects many people, including in the workplace where burnout is common but rarely expressed. It is essential to better understand these realities and bring them to light in order to support those who are suffering.
The show combines music, personal storytelling, and visual arts through your husband Pascal Lagesse’s work. How did this collaboration come about?
Pascal and I met in 2001 through an artistic project, and art has always been an integral part of our daily lives. However, ZAMETROTAR is our first collaboration of this scale. I wanted to integrate his visual universe into the show. Then, we added the contribution of Frédéric Antoinette, an animation specialist, who brought our ideas to life. The project includes 13 songs accompanied by animated sequences. Pascal created nearly 800 illustrations, all hand-drawn on a tablet in his “Zafer” style. This monumental work has resulted in a unique multimedia show in Mauritius, blending singing, theatre, and animation.
What is the main message you want to convey to the audience?
The message is contained in the title, “ZAMETROTAR,” which means “never too late.” The show reminds us that making a decision, such as starting therapy, is not enough - it must be followed by concrete actions. Change requires courage and perseverance, and it also affects those around us. My own journey is proof of this: every day has been a struggle to bring this project to completion.
How is the support of companies like the Eclosia Group essential for this type of project?
This support is crucial. As a vocal coach, I see that many people who are struggling express their emotions through their voice. We reached out to around thirty companies. Five, including Eclosia, responded positively. This commitment reflects a willingness to contribute to well-being and culture in Mauritius. It also reminds us that behind every organization are individuals, with their emotions and experiences, who enrich the company.
You are offering a special free performance on March 26 for women from NGOs. Can you tell us more?
In addition to the paid performances, we wanted to offer a session to women involved in NGOs. They fully embody the spirit of ZAMETROTAR: resilience and the choice of a better life. Thanks to the support of partners, including Small Step Matters, around twenty NGOs will attend the show free of charge. It is important for me to offer them this experience, especially since many have never attended a live performance.
Could you summarize ZAMETROTAR in two lines?
It is an invitation to accept the time needed for change. In a world where everything moves so fast, slowing down could solve many things.