We are six fascinating characters, believe me. Even if we are rejects.

***SIX CHARACTERS has now ended its run at the Lyceum - however the show continues at the Citizens' Theatre, Glasgow from 12 - 29 March 2008. These performances can be booked via the Citizens' Theatre website***

Based on Luigi Pirandello’s classic avant-garde drama, Six Characters in Search of an Author examines the nature of truth and reality as six ‘characters’ arrive at a theatre where a director and acting company are rehearsing a play (click here to see some photos of the 'real' rehearsals taking place at the Lyceum, or here to see interviews with some of the cast). Calling for the director and actors to help them tell their tale, the characters’ lives unravel as the tragic story they were created for is finally played out.

Blending intense drama with a subtle philosophical questioning of the very notion of identity, human existence and what it means to be a sentient, living person, Six Characters was first staged in 1921 and still has the power to shock today. A large cast bring this provocative and surprising production to ‘life’.

David Harrower’s adaptation was first staged at the Young Vic Theatre in 2000 to critical acclaim. This is now restaged in a co-production with the National Theatre of Scotland, and the Citizens’ Theatre, Glasgow, following on from last year’s successful co-production of Mary Stuart, and directed this year by Lyceum Artistic Director, Mark Thomson.

Running Time: 2 hours (including a 20 minute interval)

What the press thought:

“...Mark Thomson’s fabulous presentation of Pirandello’s masterpiece...” - Sunday Herald, *****

“...a fascinating production... ...gripping from start to finish...” - Evening News, ****

“...absorbing and thought-provoking...” - Metro,****

“...Mark Thomson’s funny and sure-footed staging...” - The Guardian, ****

“...a magical, absorbing two hours...” - EdinburghGuide.com, **** 

Interviews with Ron Donachie (playing 'Father'), John Dougall (playing 'Director') and Amy Manson (playing 'Daughter'). Video created by National Theatre of Scotland.

Click to hear Lyceum Artistic Director Mark Thomson talk about Pirandello and Six Characters... Interview lasts approx 6m 25s, and opens in a new window.

Owen Dudley Edwards, formerly of Edinburgh University, has been kind enough to write an editorial on the play for the Six Characters programme - click here to read an online version of this piece. 

 

Some images from the Six Characters rehearsals here at the Lyceum - just move your mouse over each one to see the full image (you might also need to click the mosaic to get it working):

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Images copyright Richard Campbell

View the National Theatre of Scotland's trailer for Six Characters...