They Call Me Busker

Street theatre is one of the oldest disciplines amongst the performing arts. At the same time, it is an often underestimated and ignored form of art. Performing on the street appeals to one's imagination. But behind this facade of curiosity, laughter, clowning and illusion lies a harsh reality.

Performing on the street is very intense, though. Physically as well as mentally, the busker should stand firm: "it'd better be good!".

Again and again, he's in a fascinating battle to capture and keep the attention of the passers-by.

New locations, complex local laws and unexpected weather circumstances are continuous challenges in getting to a successful act.

It requires creativity and craftsmanship to arrive at a successful performance.

A big wooden box is put into the boot of a car. The car takes off for a faraway destination. In the box is François, Steven Luca's puppet. For the umpteenth time he sets off on a journey. Steven Luca is ready for a new season in the street theatre and at puppet festivals.

For 20 years, François has popped up in several places in the world. From the Netherlands to Germany, France and Spain to Nashville and Doha in the Middle East. Steven Luca has huge successes with François. At night, though, the solitude of a hotel room often weighs. That's the time for Steven Luca to write down all the impressions of the day in a small notebook. His experiences with the audience inspire him for a new act. People's smile, the amazement on children's faces,... but also cultural differences appear to be a rich and interesting soil.

Gradually the idea of a new act leads to the birth of a new puppet.

''They call me BUSKER' is a documentary about the unknown life of a street artist. A life full of passion, creativity, contradictions and fellowship, as a necessity to be able to survive.