Burnt by the Sun (2010)

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Poster by Lisa Thomas

by Peter Flannery

Directed by Lisa Thomas

Performances: Tue 2nd – Sat 6th November 2010, Bell Theatre


Introduction

It's 1936. General Kotov, a hero of the Russian Revolution, is spending summer at his country dacha with his adored wife Maroussia, their daughter, Nadia and members of their extended family. When Mitia, Maroussia’s former lover, returns from a lengthy and unexplained absence, sexual jealousy, retribution and political backstabbing combine as Kotov is subjected to the terrifying reach of Stalin’s rule.

This brilliant play premiered at the National Theatre in 2009. It’s closely based on the 1994 film of the same name which has become a modern classic (and has in fact recently inspired a sequel). It combines both a powerful love triangle and a look at the paranoid politics that were already apparent prior to Stalin’s great terror. An apparently idyllic summer becomes the backdrop to fear, betrayal and ultimate disaster for the family.

Cast

Crew

Reviews

Jim O'Mulloy

I saw the first night and I think it is a beautiful, subtle and highly poetic play, incredibly well perfomed and neatly staged. Please pass my appreciation on to all your cast and crew.


Caroline Doyle

Ok. I went on Tuesday and was very impressed.

Large cast beautifully marshalled into an extended family with all the in-fighting and bickering that involves.

Tense situations often relieved by little comedy moments.

I was genuinely torn between the three main characters. Wanting to support all of them and not knowing how to resolve this, until it was resolved for me and made me sad. But in a very good way.

Gripping acting, a good play and a very vivid insight into a slice of time from the past.

And Naomi's swimsuit eclipsed Matthew's trousers for me, no problems!

Gallery

Reminiscences and Anecdotes

List of 'Stuff we need' posted on Discussion Board

Flute Cornet Tambourine Gas masks Russian military revolver and 3 other 1930s or similar era Russian hand guns ____________________________

Really old sit up and beg bike (suitable for man to ride) Supplied by Michael Wilson Small wicker or garden occasional tables (2 or 3) ideally with some matching chairs -supplied by Michael Wilson Bugle - supplied by James Webb Accordian - supplied by Chris Briggs Guitar - supplied by Mark Ireson Old (ideally 1936) copy of Pravda 2 or 3 old stretchers - found in Rehearsal Room - one particularly aged one was sat on by a child and ripped instantly Silver cigarette case - supplied by Chris Briggs Old vodka bottle Military radio set c.1930s - supplied by James Hough - HIS OLD MOBILE PHONE)

Costumes 1930s Russian General's costume 1930s Russian tank officers' costumes both eventually supplied by Sabre Sales, Southsea

See Also

Have there been other SLT productions of this play? Link to them here.

Or add anything that is related within this site. The author's page for instance or other plays with a similar theme.

References

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External Links

  • Details of the 2009 National Theatre production can be found at [1]