‘Can’t I just write characters?’
‘Sure. And you just happened to find these characters in this ancient German S&M novel’
Playwright Thomas Novachek is directing his adaptation of the novel ‘Venus In Fur’ by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch (the inspiration behind ‘masochism’). The trouble is, none of the actresses he’s met is convincing as his leading lady. When Vanda Jordan bursts in— late, brash and absolutely wrong for the part— she insists on a chance to audition. As Thomas relents and they get caught up in the characters, Vanda gives what becomes a startlingly accomplished performance.
Over the course of an evening, their balance of power shifts, playing on control, desire, and their increasing isolation from the outside world, echoing what happens in the novel.
Mandi Riggi (Mercy, Hollywood Fringe; Stardust, Hens and Chickens Theatre) directs this revival of David Ives’ tense, witty two-hander, which was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Play in 2012.
“It means so much to be working at CPT, it’s such a good opportunity to work in a professional environment at my age. I didn’t think that was ever going to happen and it means the world to me. It’s really going to help prepare me for my future and where I want to go”
CYT participant and Camden student
