Press Release: Deborah Levy’s Absurdist Play "50 Minutes" Takes the Stage with Insightful Themes of Anxiety and Conflict
Renowned author Deborah Levy, known for her Booker-nominated works, has returned to scriptwriting with her new play "50 Minutes." Inspired by a captivating cartoon of a Freud-like therapist conversing with a rabbit, Levy discovered the potential for a profound exploration of contemporary anxiety and fear.
"The absurdism of having a rabbit as a character allows for humor and deeper conversations about tough subjects," Levy explained. The play, which debuted to sold-out audiences at Theater Neumarkt in Zurich earlier this year, addresses anxiety and societal silence surrounding violence and conflict.
Set during a therapeutic hour, the dialogue unfolds between a professor and a rabbit, evoking themes of collective unease amid global turmoil. Levy wanted the work to transcend specific conflicts—though the crises in Gaza and Ukraine weighed on her mind—choosing instead to address the "immense feeling of shock and uncertainty" pervasive in today’s world.
With a captivating blend of vaudeville and European avant-garde influences, the play features a layered set and dynamic performances by Susanne Sachsse and Hauke Heumann. The rabbit’s surreal dialogue touches on relatable fears, resonating profoundly with audiences who felt compelled to fill extra seating during its run.
Co-directed by Tine Milz, who envisioned the collaboration after meeting Levy in Rome, the play challenges societal norms amidst an environment of growing censorship and division within the arts. Milz emphasized the importance of dialogue in confronting difficult subjects, making "50 Minutes" both relevant and thought-provoking.
As discussions on political unease continue across Europe, "50 Minutes" not only entertains but also prompts critical reflection on our shared realities, exploring "something that is both painfully real and subversively absurd," as Levy eloquently puts it.
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