“The Physicists” in Limassol
A Satirical Drama by Friedrich Dürrenmatt
by the Theatrical March of Limassol on Wednesday, May 13, 2009
The Theatrical March of Limassol presents Friedrich Dürrenmatt’s play The Physicists (1961) under the direction of Adonis Florides. The Physicists is a satirical drama, considered by many to be the most impressive and at the same time the most comprehensible work of the Swiss writer. After the experiences of World War II and the many new developments in science and nuclear technology, the play addresses questions concerning scientific ethics and humanity’s ability to manage its intellectual responsibilities. The play was first performed in Zurich in 1962 and remained popular in the decades that followed. It was staged in Cyprus by THOC (Cyprus Theatre Organization) in 1977.
The story takes place in a mental institution that houses wealthy patients, most of whom are relatives of the chief doctor Von-Zahn. Three physicists also reside in the sanatorium. The first is Herbert Georg Beutler, who believes he is Isaac Newton, the second is Ernst Heinrich Ernesti, who believes he is Albert Einstein, and the third is physicist Johann Wilhelm Möbius, who believes he is visited by the biblical King Solomon.
Through various comedic situations, mystery, and constant twists, the plot manages to captivate the curiosity and interest of the audience, while at the same time raising questions about science, ethics, and the future of humanity.
Music direction is by Adonis Florides, sets by Niki Leonidou, costumes by Niki Leonidou and Marianna Iona, while the lighting design is by Alexandar Yotovich. The cast includes Kokiantonis Antonis, Tryfonos Anastasia, Kokiantonis Spyros, Savva Elena, Kallis Nikos, Lakkotrypi Astero, Nathanail Vasilis, Lysandridou Anastasia, Savvidis Pantelis, Nikolaidou Niki, Ioannidou Maria, Christoforou Anastasia, Kavkalias Kyriakos, and Lamari Matina.
The premiere will take place on Wednesday, May 13, 2009, at 8:30 p.m. at the ETHAL Art Space.
Performances will follow in the same venue as scheduled: Thursday, May 14, at 8:30 p.m., Sunday, May 17, at 7:00 p.m., and Tuesday, May 19, at 8:30 p.m.
RESERVATIONS: 25877827, 25372728.