Child’s Play

Two human-like beings interact very playfully with the objects they encounter onstage. In Rococo, we see two actors (Herman Helle and Pauline Kalker) playing. Truly playing: sometimes they are childlike; sometimes a little grotesque; and sometimes subdued. For the most part, the actors also create the sound – as they play. Like by riding over bubble wrap, or jumping up and down on it, or drilling into it. In short, then: by playing.

Rococo is about wonderment. The initial impression is of a light-hearted piece. But the scene at the end with the two figures onstage roasting feet over an imitation fire raises questions about the world that they, and we, live in.

23-08-2008