Dorcy Rugamba is a Rwandan actor, playwright and founder of the Urwintore company, which performs “The Investigation”, Peter Weiss’s 1964 play based on the Auschwitz trials, at the Young Vic until 10 November (www.youngvic.org)
1 Does art make a difference?
Art can contribute to the peace of the world, succeeding where war, politics and business have failed, by allowing cultures and civilisation to interact with one another.
2 Should politics and art mix?
Every form of expression destined for a large audience has a political impact. Even when an artist chooses never to deal with politics, it is a political choice – that of not questioning the running of world affairs.
3 Is your work for the many or for the few?
It is created for everyone, but at the same time meant to be appreciated by a small number of people at a time. My work focuses on theatre and writing, two very intimate media.
4 If you were world leader, what would be your first law?
States that sell armaments would be barred from the UN Security Council. Admittedly, there would be no one left on the Security Council, but at least then it would be obvious that our security is assured by no one.
5 Who would be your top advisers?
When you see how popular heroes age – the Castros, the Mitterrands or Mugabes of this world – it doesn’t make you want to entrust the world to a charismatic leader. I would have only renowned dead people in my government.
6 What, if anything, would you censor?
I would abolish flags, hymns and all those things that create contentious brotherhoods and hereditary enmities between men.
7 If you had to banish one public figure, who would it be?
A character from fiction – God, for example, who would be politely asked to remain for ever in his sky and to leave men to their own devices.
8 What are the rules that you live by?
Happiness is for now, today; not tomorrow.
9 Do you love your country?
I love my country with a passion. However, I am wary: patriotism can lead to nationalism, which is an illness of the heart.
10 Are we all doomed?
On the contrary, we are incredibly lucky. Every one of us has beaten more than a hundred million sperm to have been born! There are only winners on earth.
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