arts
The Search for Meaning in a Labyrinth of Anxiety
Placing the situation of 'theatre within theatre' at the center of events, Ronald Harwood, in the comedic drama 'The Dresser', written in the early eighties, explores the meanings and functions of creating theatrical art, especially in times of social crisis, keeping in mind that the action takes place during World War II. Actors of a faltering theatre group, crippled by wartime (human) losses, perform 'King Lear', led by an actor with severely impaired health, while his dresser guides him through this personal labyrinth of anxiety and confusion, lighting the way (symbolically) in the darkness, showing him the path he should take.
TL;DR
- The play "The Dresser" by Ronald Harwood explores the creation of theatrical art during times of social crisis, set during World War II.
- A struggling theatre company performs "King Lear" with a mentally and physically unwell lead actor, guided by his dresser.
- Director Paolo Mađeli's revival uses a multimedia approach with live music from the indie rock band Koikoi, creating moments of intriguing and somber atmosphere.
- The most impactful scenes involve the music and video projections during the "storm" scene and the play's conclusion, but these are not consistently integrated into the overall performance.
- Performances by Voja Brajović as the dresser and Miki Manojlović as the lead actor are noted, but the production is criticized for lacking rhythm, inspiration, and a consistent connection with the audience.
- The core ideas of the play, such as theatre as a refuge, are not fully realized due to the uneven stage language and lack of holistic inspiration, preventing a cathartic experience for the audience.