Carl Knif creates an innovative and physical interpretation of August Strindberg’s A Dream Play.
Deity Agnes undertakes a dreamlike journey through the world, encountering the different sides of humanity. She sees people and their lives as they are, full of contrasts and suffering, but also great beauty. Will Agnes be disappointed with humans, or will she be filled with love? How will she interpret the meaning of life and humans’ role on earth? Knif poses questions through strong physical expression and visuality. Music also plays a key role in the performance.
The performance is produced in collaboration between the Swedish Theatre in Helsinki, Riksteatern in Sweden, and Carl Knif Company.
Direction and choreography: Carl Knif
Dramaturgy: Carl Knif, Kristofer Möller
Performers: Mårten Andersson, Patrick Henriksen, Olli Lautiola, Denny Lekström, Oksana Lommi, Tobias Zilliacus
Scenographer: Erik Salvesen
Costume designer: Karoliina Koiso-Kanttila
Sound designer/Composer: Janne Hast
Light designer: Jukka Huitila
Make-up and hair: Tiitta Stoor
Photographer: Valtteri Kantanen and Cata Portin
Production: Carl Knif Company, Svenska Teatern, Riksteatern
Premiere: 8.9.2021 Svenska Teatern, Helsinki
Next performances:
10.8.2022, 11.8.2022, 17.8.2022, 19.8.2022 at 19, Svenska Teatern, Helsinki
With the support of Konstsamfundet.
Watch an introductory video of A Dream Play (in Swedish) at Svenska Teatern’s Vimeo.
“Carl Knif impressed a few years ago on the same stage with his dance theatre production of Kafka’s short novel Metamorphosis, and it quickly becomes clear that A Dream Play will not be a disappointment. In fact, the show is excellent, both entertaining and intellectual, visually rich and innovative.”
Isabella Rothberg, HBL 9.9.2021
“August Strindberg’s classic works perfectly with choreographer Carl Knif’s scenographic language.”
Lauri Meri, Helsingin sanomat 9.9.2021
“The dance choreographies of director and choreograph Carl Knif fit well into the experimental and dreamlike performance, as does Janne Hast’s magical and fateful music.”
Sateenkaarenmaalari, 4.10.2021
“It’s astonishing how topical the issues raised by a work that premiered in 1907 feel right now. Perhaps because we have been extremely obedient for the past two years, following instructions and all the while thinking about justice more than usual.”
Minna Tawast, Teatteri & Tanssi + Sirkus 17.9.2021
