In his interactive dialogue with the viewer, Andrzej Seweryn speaks about the world of Shakespeare and the world in general. Monologues from the greatest works by the Stratford-born playwright, such as Hamlet, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, Henry V, The Tempest and Richard III are arranged into a fascinating story of literature and culture – and man, as seen in moments of triumph, doubt and defeat.
The play is a rare lesson on theatre by Andrzej Seweryn. Playing the characters of Henry V, Hamlet, Falstaff, Richard III, Ariel, Lady Macbeth and Juliet, the actor brings out the beauty and timeless wisdom of Shakespeare’s poetry. He evokes the central Shakespearean themes: the obsession with power, the madness of the senses, the timelessness of love and the sadness of loneliness, jealousy and betrayal, the ubiquity of desire, the pain of failure, doubts about the meaning of life and the power of hope. He also demonstrates his mastery of acting technique.
The play is recommended for seasoned viewers of Shakespeare and first-timers alike. The former will have an opportunity to hear their favourite Shakespearean monologues and dialogues newly translated by Piotr Kamiński and innovatively interpreted by Andrzej Seweryn; the latter will be encouraged to continue the exciting journey into the world of Shakespeare’s plays.
12 December 2015 and 28 January 2016 at the Polish Theatre in Warsaw (Small Stage)
Running time: 2 hours, 20 minutes (no intermission)
