The Bill – Tim Etchells at Schauspiel Köln

Tim etchells’ “L’Addition” Explores Power Dynamics in New Vienna Production

A darkly comedic exploration of hierarchical relationships, “L’addition” by Tim Etchells, Bertrand Lesca, and nasi Voutsas, is now playing at Depot 3 in Vienna following its German-language premiere at the Vienna Festival Weeks 2024. The production, directed by Etchells himself, promises a profound and humorous look at the complexities of power, culminating in a slapstick scenario centered around a simple question: who will pay the bill?

A Master-Servant Dynamic Unveiled

The play, rooted in the work of British author and director Tim Etchells of Forced Entertainment, delves into the multifaceted nature of power dynamics. according to production notes, the humor intensifies as the scene unfolds, revealing the inherent pitfalls within master-servant relationships and broader hierarchical constellations. The core of the narrative lies in observing how these dynamics play out, creating tension and ultimately, comedic effect.

Did you know? – “L’Addition” translates to “The Bill” in English, directly referencing the central conflict of the play. The original French text was adapted for a German-speaking audience,maintaining the core themes.

“L’Addition” originated at the Festival d’Avignon in 2023, quickly gaining attention for its unique blend of philosophical inquiry and physical comedy. The play features a minimalist set and focuses intensely on the interaction between two characters: a master and a servant. The dynamic is established through a series of increasingly absurd demands and refusals, all revolving around the seemingly simple act of settling a restaurant bill. The production’s success lies in its ability to expose the often-unspoken power imbalances present in everyday interactions.

From Avignon to Vienna: A growing Reception

“L’Addition” originally debuted at the Festival d’avignon in 2023 before making its way to Vienna. The production,a collaboration between Volkstheater in the districts and Wiener Festwochen,features performances by Frank Genser and Christoph Schüchner. The staging, designed by Richard Lowdon, is complemented by music from Graeme Miller and dramaturgy by Lidia Polito. A striking photograph by Marcel Urlaub captures the essence of the production.

Pro tip: – The play’s minimalist staging and focus on dialogue encourage close attention to the actors’ performances. Consider how subtle shifts in body language and tone contribute to the power dynamics.

Performance Schedule and Ticket information

Audiences can experience “L’Addition” on the following dates:

• October 30th (7 p.m.and additional performance at 7 p.m.)
• November 14th (7:30 p.m.)
• November 22nd (8 p.m.)

additional performance dates are expected to be announced. Tickets are currently available at the advance ticket office in the Opernpassagen, online at www.splkln.de, or by phone at 0221/221-28400. The production, supported by the Free Republic of Vienna, offers a unique theatrical experience that promises both intellectual stimulation and uproarious laughter.

Reader question: – What everyday situations do you think best illustrate power imbalances? Share your thoughts on how these dynamics play out in your own life.