MSI’s 2022 showcase was a spectacular event, featuring some of the best plays from around the world. From heart-wrenching dramas to thrilling comedies, these five plays stood out as must-see productions for anyone interested in theatre. In this article, we will take a closer look at each of these plays and analyze what makes them so special.
- "The Last Kiss" by Samuel Beckett
Samuel Beckett’s play "The Last Kiss" is a classic that has been performed countless times since its debut in 1928. This play tells the story of two lovers, Fred and Lena, who meet on a bridge in Paris. Over the course of the play, they engage in a passionate argument that leads to their final kiss, which marks the end of their relationship.
What makes this play so special is its timeless themes and its ability to capture the complexity of human relationships. The characters are flawed and vulnerable, yet they remain relatable despite their flaws. The play’s minimalist set design and sparse dialogue add to its impact, creating a sense of intimacy that draws the audience in.
- "The History Boys" by Alan Bennett
"The History Boys" is a play that won the Olivier Award for Best New Play in 2004, and later made its way to the big screen with a star-studded cast. The play follows a group of six boys as they prepare for their A-Levels exams, each with their own unique personalities and strengths.
What makes this play so special is its humor, which comes from the sharp wit of the characters and the clever way they banter and joke with one another. The play also tackles serious themes such as the importance of education and the pressures that young people face in their pursuit of academic success.
- "Angels in America" by Tony Kushner
Tony Kushner’s epic play "Angels in America" is a masterpiece of modern theatre, winning multiple Pulitzers and Tony Awards since its debut in 1992. The play follows a group of characters as they navigate their way through the AIDS crisis in New York City during the 1980s and 1990s.
What makes this play so special is its ambitious scope and its ability to tackle complex themes such as love, loss, and mortality with grace and sensitivity. The play’s mix of drama, comedy, and music creates a powerful and emotional experience that stays with the audience long after they leave the theatre.
- "August: Osage County" by Tracy Letts
Tracy Letts’ Pulitzer Prize-winning play "August: Osage County" tells the story of the Weston family, who gather at their Oklahoma home for a holiday reunion that quickly turns into a heated argument about everything from politics to family secrets.
What makes this play so special is its sharp writing and its ability to capture the dysfunction and tension that often exists within families. The play’s complex characters, each with their own unique quirks and flaws, make for a compelling watch, while the play’s mix of drama and dark comedy creates a rollercoaster ride of emotions for the audience.
- "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett
Ken Follett’s novel "The Pillars of the Earth" was adapted into a BBC miniseries in 2011, and it remains one of the most highly rated productions of its kind. The play follows the story of Alaric, a blacksmith’s son who rises to become the mayor of a medieval town, navigating political intrigue, religious conflict, and personal betrayal along the way.
What makes this play so special is its sweeping historical scope and its attention to detail when it comes to the daily lives of people in the Middle Ages. The play’s mix of drama, action, and suspense keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, while the complex characters and their struggles make for a deeply emotional experience.
Conclusion
MSI 2022 was a showcase of some of the best plays from around the world, each with its own unique charms and strengths.