Dramatic performance: Yasmina Reza's "Serge" graces the stage at Schauspiel Düsseldorf
In the heart of Düsseldorf, the Düsseldorf Schauspielhaus is currently hosting a thought-provoking production of Yasmina Reza's play, "Serge." Originally titled "Art" and presented by Selen Kara, this adaptation delves into the intricate dynamics of family relationships, challenging viewers to question the nature and value of art, the fragility of friendship, and the critical faculty that shapes our understanding of both.
The play revolves around the character of Serge, portrayed by Andreas Grothgar, a bon vivant with a nervous temperament, anxiety, and anger outbursts, who refuses to confront his family's Holocaust past. Jean, the younger brother of Serge, is played by Thomas Wittmann and serves as the novel's first-person narrator. Jean is also the eternal mediator and peacemaker between Serge and Nana, the sister who was Papa's favourite, played effortlessly by Claudia Hübbecker, who takes on the roles of the old parents in memory scenes.
The stage design for the play is abstract, featuring a multi-layered illuminated frame with minimal props, providing a stark backdrop for the intense emotional exchanges between the characters. The performance duration is one hour and 15 minutes, with no intermission, making for a captivating and concentrated viewing experience.
The relatives of the grandmother, who came from Hungary, were killed at Auschwitz, a tragic reality that has never been discussed among the Popper family. This unexplored past becomes a significant subtext in the play, as Jean insists on taking his family on a trip to Auschwitz after his grandmother's funeral.
Mehdi Moinzadeh plays both the Spanish macho brother-in-law Ramos and the caring partner of old cousin Maurice, adding depth and complexity to the family dynamics. Rainer Philippi appears as the old jester Maurice and the touching boy Luc, rounding out the ensemble cast.
"Serge" has received criticism following its premiere in Vienna, but its exploration of the Holocaust past, the family's inability to confront it, and the absurdity of their inability to gather appropriately at the site of historical horror, portrayed through Yasmina Reza's use of humor, has resonated with audiences.
Upcoming performances of "Serge" by Yasmina Reza will take place on March 22, 28, April 3, 11, and 22 at the Kleines Haus in Düsseldorf's Schauspiel am Gründgens-Platz. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.dhaus.de. This thought-provoking production is not to be missed for those seeking a profound exploration of art, friendship, and family dynamics.
Movies-and-TV coverage of the challenging production of Yasmina Reza's play "Serge" at Düsseldorf Schauspielhaus is a must-watch for those interested in entertainment that delves into deep family relationships and the value of art. The play, a German adaptation of the original "Art" presented by Selen Kara, is also an exploration of the Holocaust past, joining the discussions on entertainment platforms.
