| To Forgive One's Self
In one of her most known poems Anna Akhmatova warned her readers that she lives "in very last time". However, every time I come across her poetic magic I trust this statement less and less. A highly original script by young Russian playwright Galina Lavrinenko made me sense Akhmatova's presence and truly get acquainted with her spirit. Poets of that calibre do not die; they never leave us and their words — no matter how long ago written — always have a profound effect on every human heart.
The play "To Forgive One's Self" was performed in the UK for the very first time and, interestingly enough, has attracted a lot of English speaking audience. Some people wanted to hear the music of the language whilst others came out of curiosity. But after the show both Russian and English speakers were filled with admiration for Akhmatova's genius, horrified by the brutal reality of her time and moved by her personal and artistic courage.
The show was was generously supported by staff members of Rossotrudnitshestvo, visual artist Kabira Alieva and spiritual composer Karunesh. All these people selflessly donated their time and talent to the project and that made it even more special.
Written by Galina Lavrinenko (From the poems of Anna Akhmatova)
Directed by Dimitry Devdariani
Music by Karunesh
Performed by Tatiana Lavrentieva at Rossotrudnichestvo, London in September 2013
Debut production of Esoteric Theatre London |
