This is the North American premiere production of acclaimed Argentinian playwright Rafael Spregelburd’s Stupidity (la Estupidez). Argentine playwright Rafael Spregelburd has written a Borgesian farce, set in a series of identical Las Vegas motel rooms in which five actors morph seamlessly into a couple of dozen characters entangled in multiple sub-plots that have to do with a trio of corrupt gay cops, a couple of shysters trying to sell a phony painting, a variety of sleazy rich people, a scientist who has an invaluable secret about the future of the Earth, a son in trouble with the mob, a trio with a scheme to beat the house at blackjack, an investigative journalist, good time girls and more. (From a review by Jerry Wasserman – Vancouver Plays)
Photos by Tim Matheson (click an image for full size)
Critical Response
One of the funniest plays Vancouver has seen in years. What does dazzle here is the work of the five performers under the slick, high-tempo direction of Richard Wolfe.
—Jerry Wasserman, The Province
I loved it! (3 stars out of 4)
—Michael Harris, The Globe and Mail
Wolfe has everyone, including Alex Zahara, Johann Helf and Nicole Leroux up to speed. Five actors play 24 roles in 90 minutes.
– Jo Ledingham, The Courier
Artistic and Production Personnel
Directed by Richard Wolfe
Featuring in multiple roles (five actors play 27 characters): Allan Morgan, Johann Helf, Nicole Leroux, Alex Zahara and Naomi Wright.
Translated and adapted by playwright Crispin Whittell through National Theatre’s Channels Series.
Set Design by Al Frisk
Lighting Design by Michael Schaldemose
Costume Design by Barbara Clayden
Sound Design and original music by Chris Hind
Stage Management by Jamie Tait
October 2007