by Nikolai Erdman, translated by Peter Tegel

Director – Brant Eustice

The Suicide is an hilarious, 1924, satirical Russian comedy about an unemployed man, Semyon, who contemplates suicide. When his thoughts become known, a variety of zany characters try to persuade him to die in promotion of their cause – including artists, intellectuals, lovers and butchers. All plead their case and hope to gain publicity if Semyon dies in their name. Semyon’s frenzied wife and mother run around trying to keep him safe.

The Suicide was banned by Stalin and Nikolai Erdman was sent to a Siberian work camp for 20 years. The play was never performed in his lifetime. Today it is regarded as one of the finest plays to have come out of Communist Russia. Britain’s longest serving theatre critic, Michael Billington, includes it in his collection of ‘The 101 Greatest Plays’.

 Lead Female Role Available

Maria, Semyon’s wife. Stage age 25-35. This is a comic role so excellent comic timing is required. Familiarity with physical theatre would be an advantage.

Several Male Roles Available

There are 29 characters in this play. Several roles are available that involve doubling/tripling a variety of crazy characters. All ages are welcome.

Performance Dates

25-27 May and 31 May-3 June at 7.30pm. 28 May at 2.00pm

 Venue: Holden Street Theatres, 34 Holden Street, Hindmarsh

First Reading: Monday 20^th March at 6.30pm

Rehearsals

Monday and Wednesdays 6.30-9.45pm and Sundays 12.30-5.00pm.

A rehearsal on Thursday 6 April replaces Easter Sunday.

Rehearsal Venue: Lower Mitcham

Auditions: By appointment on Tuesday 7^th February and Thursday 9^th. Email Michael Eustice at info@redphoenixtheatre.com (Male actors who have previously worked with Red Phoenix do not need to audition – just apply.)