Ivanov
2nd October – 1st November, 2015
Ivanov is ordinary. And yet Ivanov is extraordinary. He stands out like out a black hole around which a ridiculous, poignant miniature universe gravitates and gossips. A world of parasites, inveterate snobs and cynics. We catch glimpses of them indulging in endless card games to relieve the tedium or drowning their sorrows in vodka. At the heart of this ailing society, Ivanov flounders under the weight of his ruined ideals. Nowadays, we would say he is burnt out, depressed. Anna, his wife, is dying but is unaware of her plight. Sacha, the considerably younger neighbour, dreams of bringing him new happiness. Each of them wants something from Ivanov: love, money, or actions. Ivanov is besieged. Surrounded. He can take no more...
Luc Bondy’s flowing and romanesque production, resembling a storm-ridden sky streaked with outbursts of humour, is backed up by an exceptional cast and was one of last season’s major successes.