When is it justifiable to take extreme action in the name of justice?
This provocative question forms the core of an acclaimed theatrical production making its Cyprus debut. For two nights, audiences in Nicosia can immerse themselves in a performance that blends critical reflection, raw commentary, and challenging social questions.
A Spotlight on Democracy’s Fragility
In a landmark year for democracy, where over 60 nations and half the global population participate in elections, Nicosia 2030 examines its precarious nature. As part of the 5th Nicosia International Festival, the celebrated play Catarina and the Beauty of Killing Fascists by Portuguese playwright Tiago Rodrigues will grace the stage of the Nicosia Municipal Theatre. Performances are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, offering a compelling exploration of democracy and moral dilemmas.
A Family’s Unconventional Tradition
The play revolves around a family in southern Portugal with a unique and controversial custom: once a year, they step away from their everyday lives to kill a fascist. Through this unsettling premise, Rodrigues delves into profound political and ethical issues, raising questions about the methods used to combat rising fascist ideologies in democratic societies.
Can violence ever be justified in the pursuit of a better world? This central question challenges audiences to reflect on whether it is acceptable to “do evil to achieve good,” echoing the family’s guiding philosophy. Rodrigues also probes whether breaking democratic rules is warranted in the effort to protect and strengthen democracy.
Avoiding Simplistic Answers
Rather than offering clear-cut solutions, Rodrigues forces the audience to confront these moral dilemmas head-on. His portrayal of fascism avoids caricature, compelling viewers to engage with the complexities of the issue.
Tiago Rodrigues: A Visionary Playwright
Rodrigues, a celebrated Portuguese actor and playwright, began honing his craft in Belgium at the age of 20. In September 2022, he was appointed Director of the prestigious Avignon Festival, where he has directed notable productions such as Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard, By Heart, and Hecuba. His works, including Catarina and the Beauty of Killing Fascists, have earned critical acclaim and international recognition.
Acclaim and International Tour
The play has garnered several accolades, including the UBU 2023 Best Foreign Performance Award in Italy and the 2023 Critics’ Union Best Foreign Performance Award in France. Actress Beatriz Maïa, portraying Catarina, received the Virginia Reiter Premio for Best Foreign Actress.
Having toured extensively across Europe—from Venice to Lisbon—and even crossing the Atlantic to perform at New York’s Brooklyn Academy of Music, the production now arrives in Cyprus.
Catch the Performance in Nicosia
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this thought-provoking play as it takes the Nicosia stage. A few tickets remain available through Sold Out Tickets.
Details:
Catarina and the Beauty of Killing Fascists
Award-winning play by Tiago Rodrigues
Part of the 5th Nicosia International Festival
When: December 10-11, 8:30 PM
Where: Nicosia Municipal Theatre, Nicosia
Language: In Portuguese, with English and Greek surtitles
Tickets: Available at www.soldoutticketbox.com
Prepare for an evening of profound questions and gripping storytelling as this groundbreaking production challenges our perceptions of morality, justice, and democracy.
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