The model is Gavin Extence’s novel: the award-winning author Marisa Wendt from Leipzig transformed the 500-page tome into a play. The first took place on Saturday.
At the beginning and at the end she is the center of attention: a black urn. It’s old Peterson’s urn. The start of production is bumpy. It takes time for the spectator to orient himself among all the levels on which the game is played and acted out. But the public doesn’t have much time. Director Holle Münster did a good job…
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Interview with Marisa Wendt, the Adaptation Expert Behind Gavin Extence’s Play
Editor: Thank you for joining us, Marisa. It’s exciting to see your adaptation of Gavin Extence’s acclaimed novel make its debut on stage. Can you tell us what inspired your decision to transform such a lengthy novel into a play?
Marisa Wendt: Thank you for having me! My decision to adapt Gavin Extence’s novel stemmed from a deep appreciation for the intricate narrative and the emotional depth of the characters. The challenge of condensing a 500-page tome into a stage production was daunting, but also an opportunity to distill the essence of the story and convey it through powerful performances.
Editor: In your adaptation, a black urn symbolizes an important element. Can you explain its significance in the context of the play?
Marisa Wendt: Absolutely. The black urn represents the weight of memory and loss, primarily focusing on old Peterson’s legacy. It serves as a focal point at both the beginning and end of the play, mirroring the themes of reflection and acceptance. The audience is invited to explore these layers of meaning as the characters navigate their relationships and histories.
Editor: Your production faced challenges initially regarding audience orientation amidst the complex narrative layers. How did you, alongside director Holle Münster, work to overcome those hurdles?
Marisa Wendt: The journey to create a cohesive and engaging experience for the audience was indeed challenging. Holle and I worked closely to ensure that each scene was crafted with clarity, allowing the audience to follow the emotional trajectory of the characters. We emphasized visual storytelling and strong staging choices to help audiences connect quickly with the narrative, enhancing their overall experience.
Editor: Adaptations can often draw mixed reactions. How do you gauge the balance between staying true to the original text and making it accessible for a live audience?
Marisa Wendt: It’s a delicate balance, for sure. While it’s essential to remain faithful to the spirit of the original work, we also need to consider the temporal and spatial dynamics of theatre. I focused on the core themes and emotional arcs to maintain the essence of Extence’s narrative while enhancing engagement through performance. Audience feedback is invaluable during this process, as it helps refine the final product.
Editor: As an expert in adapting novels into stage plays, what advice would you give to others looking to embark on similar projects?
Marisa Wendt: My advice would be to immerse yourself in the source material deeply. Understand the motivations of the characters and the themes at play. Once you have that clarity, focus on how to express those elements visually and aurally. Collaborating with directors and actors who share your vision is crucial, as their insights can enrich the adaptation significantly.
Editor: Looking ahead, how do you see the adaptation landscape evolving in the theatre industry?
Marisa Wendt: The future of adaptations in theatre certainly looks promising. As audiences seek richer storytelling experiences, there will be a growing demand for innovative approaches to adapting literature. The key will be to create a balance between authenticity and creativity, ensuring that these adaptations resonate with both existing fans of the novel and new audiences alike.
Editor: Thank you, Marisa, for sharing your insights on the adaptation process and your recent production. We’re excited to see how audiences respond!
Marisa Wendt: Thank you for having me! I can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic of this play.