In a world of rising fear and paranoia, a play explores the absurdity of human behaviour during a plague outbreak.
The Killing Game, an absurdist comedy written by renowned Romanian-French playwright Eugene Ionesco, will take the stage at UVic’s Phoenix Theatre from Feb. 13 to 22.
Directed by UVic theatre professor Conrad Alexandrowicz, the production blends biting satire with humour to examine human behaviour during a period of great hardship.
While the play’s premise revolves around rising fear and paranoia, Alexandrowicz says the story remains relevant in today’s world, touching on themes of social panic and conspiracy theories.
“The play feels surprisingly relevant – almost as if it were written yesterday,” notes Alexandrowicz. “It doesn’t just explore the idea of an epidemic but also captures the social panic and the swirl of conspiracy theories that fuel its spread.”
Ionesco, a key figure in the theatre of the absurd, is celebrated for his sharp critiques of modern society and innovative theatrical techniques.
The Killing Game features senior students in UVic’s Theatre program. Performances run from Feb. 13 to 15 and 18 to 22 at 8 p.m., with matinees on Feb. 15 and 22 at 2 p.m.
A pre-show lecture by Alexandrowicz will take place Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available through the Phoenix Theatre box office at 250-721-8000 or online at www.phoenixtheatres.ca.
