Writer, Director & Starring: Anders Falstie-Jensen Producer: The Rebel Alliance
sonder n. the realisation that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own—populated with their own ambitions, friends, routines, ...
Do you really remember March through to May 2020? The confusion, the fear, the uncertainty, the eventual acceptance? Can you recall if you gave much thought to the elderly who lived alone, especially those in a place far away? Back to Square One? returns you to that time while offering a completely unique perspective.
Back to Square One? was initially performed in Anders Falstie-Jensen’s driveway for neighbours. A (shortened) season at the Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival (thanks, COVID) occurred earlier this year followed by various outings across Aotearoa. The play was shortlisted for the 2020 Adam Award for ‘Best new New Zealand play.’
With just chalk, Falstie-Jensen spun a great yarn about his experience of lockdown in Auckland versus that of his 95-year old grandmother Inga in Denmark. Also woven into this vibrant piece was Norse mythology, Danish hospitality, and humour. It cleverly included the themes of loneliness and connectivity during a global pandemic.
Falstie-Jensen is a gifted bilingual storyteller. There was no need for a set, props or costumes. He created a safe and fun space that was heartwarming and thought-provoking. Falstie-Jensen shifted effortlessly between characters while delivering compelling dialogue.
This chalk and talk performance was captivating and wholesome. Back to Square One? left the audience in a sublime state of sonder and camaraderie. It concluded with an unexpected invitation. In the name of Thor, I urge you to see this outstanding play.
There are two performances left – Saturday 14 August 2021 at 6.30pm, and Sunday 15 August 2021 at 2.00pm.
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