PRODUCTIONS
Twiggy and Woody Productions
in association with
Oxford University Japan Society present
FRIENDS
by Kobo ABE (1993)
Performed in English
Abe is a Japanese novelist and playwright noted for his use of bizarre and allegorical situations to underline the isolation of the individual man. As meditations on the absurdity and alienation of modern life, the writings of Kobo Abe are frequently compared to the work of authors like Kafka and Beckett.
"Friends" is a vivid, cynical dramatization of the anonymity of urban life without a trace of nostalgia for a putatively healthier alternative. It traces the decline of a young man whose apartment is invaded by a family of eight who inexorably deprive him of everything he has, all the while proclaiming their concern for his well-being.
"Friends" is a satire on the nature of family and of collective living. Also, as always, Abe's issues are isolation in modern society and what makes up a sense of indivisual identity.
"Friends" is a play having its important musical nature like Marat/Sade. The music will be newly written for the production by Ryota Kojima, an award-winning Japanese composer. The production will be staged after a long workshop period beginning in June, which emphasises in various physical and musical experiments.
Venue/Dates
Not confirmed yet, but will be applying for
The Old Fire Station Theatre
Oxford
November 2001
Director Yuki Watabe
Music Ryota Kojima
Lighting Jenny Allen
Costume Isobel Shirlaw
Auditions (29th May - 2nd June 2001 : 6th Week TT)
St. Johns College
If you have any inquiries, please contact Yuki Watabe
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