by George Noskov

A rehearsed reading of a short play

In a 5 page script Noskov succeeds in presenting an engrossing philosophical play. “From the depths of time” he resurrects two great Russian intellectuals, Dostoyevsky and Chekhov, whom he brings back to life on the stage in front of us. Noskov also places himself on the stage as a writer, and the three of them proceed to drink vodka and talk. The effect of the vodka and the introduction on stage of two cats, which remind us of ourselves, provide a disillusioned view of life and humanity. As he says, through his own character’s mouth, Noskov is interested in “real people”. Like Bejart, whose intention was to strip dance of its decorum in order to reveal the human soul on stage, he proceeds to explore the depths of the human soul, of feelings and relationships. The audience is made to feel what its like to live in a world devoid of rules and enter with him into the realm of imagination, where anything can happen. Far from the the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this bitter comedy makes the audience reflect on the very essence of humanity. While criticising modern consumer society and reflecting on the difference between appearing and being, Noskov challenges the audience. This play makes us both think about and laugh at "reality" at the same time.