Seminal play a departure for Dunstable Rep

Its first performances caused riots and bafflement '“ and audiences in Dunstable may find out why when a 20th -century classic is presented in the town.
Arguably one of the most important plays of the 20th century: Six Characters in Search of an AuthorArguably one of the most important plays of the 20th century: Six Characters in Search of an Author
Arguably one of the most important plays of the 20th century: Six Characters in Search of an Author

Six Characters in Search of an Author is an absurdist work dealing with the relationship between authors, their characters and theatre practitioners, as well as being a discussion about art and life.

Luigi Pirandello’s work premiered at the Teatro Valle in Rome in 1921, prompting the baffled audience to riot, although the play’s reception improved at subsequent performances.

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It tells of an acting company rehearsing in a theatre when they are interrupted by the arrival of six strange people claiming to be unfinished characters in search of an author to complete their story. To the actors’ disbelief, their director agrees to help the characters to stage their tale. Tragic events unfold before them – but the audience is left questioning whether they are reality or fiction,

It is being presented at the Little Theatre by Dunstable Rep from Friday May 6 to Saturday May 14.

Director Jenna Ryder-Oliver said: “I studied the play back in my early 20s, and was fascinated by the questions it raised for me about theatre as a whole.

“It’s arguably one of the most important plays of the first half of the 20th century, and is something of a departure from the Rep’s recent productions.

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“I am looking forward to stretching the expectations of both our audiences and our performers!”

Tickets cost £10 for members and £14 for non-members. Performances start at 7.45pm. Call 07940 105864 to book.

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