Metamorphoses of the Nights

The production “As we were” touches upon themes of adolescence, family dynamics, the acceleration of time, and high expectations. Right from the start, we encounter the main protagonist, who boards the train and wants to rest. Later, two other individuals join him: a mother searching for her son, and the aunt of the mentioned boy. Within the confines of a small compartment, conversations unfold, interwoven with invisible ties, and the symbolism of a railway subtly points to a rapidly changing world.

The work is based on a dramatic text, with characters frequently revisiting the theme of family, from which they simultaneously strive to escape. Chaotically, they navigate towards the end, traversing the text through the thorny paths of forests glimpsed through the train window. Lukas Schöppl, a student of theatrical direction, has compellingly arranged the piece, and thanks to the set design and excellent performances by Austrian actors, the audience was immediately immersed in the absurd drama.

The staging takes place in a compartment of a moving train. Through the window, one sees the landscape shifting, marking the passage of time. Sometimes time flows swiftly, at other times slowly, and occasionally as if in a dream. The frequent use of projection was an intriguing element that kept the audience engaged in the narrative. The colourfulness and the utilization of projection across the entire stage complemented the emotions of the characters.

As a significant component, György Ligeti’s music, specifically his String Quartet No. 1 “Metamorphoses of the Nights,” began the entire production. The actors responded to the music’s progression, expressing emotions they couldn't articulate aloud, skilfully using their bodies in more dramatic moments. The costumes were simple, and ordinary, yet with a slightly old-fashioned charm. The costume for character A. had an interesting function, consisting of a suit with suspenders which aided in the portrayal of the character's age. The shift in age was also accompanied by music from Franz Schubert, featuring urgent motifs that underscored the scene’s intensity.

Each character undergoes an age transformation throughout the performance. All the actors handled this transformation adeptly, infusing their characters with distinct nuances. Despite the noticeable psychological depth of the characters, the acting felt natural and authentic. They broke through the language barrier with excellent vocal work, ensuring clarity even in passages where they spoke softly. The entire performance unfolds towards the end with all the information leading to the final conclusion.