A play for children, which is to be presented in Lévis this summer, is causing quite an uproar on social networks.
Many parents consider the words of the play grossophobic. A situation strongly denounced by a mother from Lévis.
“I found it a bit absurd to see that this piece was offered to children and it is specified from 4 to 12 years old”, explains Angelica Trottier, mother of a 2-year-old boy.
She says she fell out of her chair earlier this week when she received the guide to activities offered by the City of Lévis this summer.
“I came across a play called Diet Ketchup. When I read the description, the 2 arms fell off me. We are talking regarding Ketchup the clown who has extra pounds and to make him lose weight, his friends will prevent him from eating his favorite meal. I find that at the point where we are at as a society, it’s not a great message to pass on to our children. These are grossophobic remarks, ”she adds.
For her part, the director of the company Marie-Stella, which produces the piece, defends herself.
“It’s just for fun. I don’t think it’s offensive,” said Marie-Christine Morin. She says she is still sensitive to the situation and thinks maybe making changes to the piece.
At the City of Lévis, there is no question of canceling the performances on the program. We are answered by email[…] this play was also presented at City events and did not elicit any negative reactions from spectators young and old. You should know that Lévis spectators are 95% satisfied with the productions of this professional troupe which, we remind you, specializes in family entertainment.
The play is to be presented on June 27 and 28 in two Lévis parks.
With the collaboration of Pascale Robitaille
