Russian Roulette
A series of site specific monologues inspired by the Russian greats and performed in and around the bookshops of Hay as part of the Hay Festival.
About the work
Drawing on the giants of Russian literature, a collaboration of writers and directors created a series of dramatic monologues that drifted out of the darkest corners of the dusty Hay on Wye bookshops and galleries.
The live performances blurred the lines between casual book-browsing and accidental witness-bearing, revealing the hidden underbellies of Dostoevsky, Gogol and Lermontov.
“Totally unique experience. And strangely moving.”
How we made it
The creative team job swapped and brought in guest artists for Russian Roulette, directors wrote, writers directed and new musicians were invited to work with the team to create new ambiances for the new Feral pastures of Hay on Wye.
Working closely with the Hay Festival team, audiences rolled up when they wished or stumbled across the performances by chance.
Performances
Russian Roulette was performed in bookshops and galleries in Hay as part of the Hay Festival in 2011.
“Had me hooting with laughter.”
Credits
Writers/Directors – Megan Barker, Estelle van Warmelo, Nancy Robinson, Jackie Wylie
Music - Phil Farr, Richard Reed Parry, Rab Handleigh
Performers – Rab Handleigh, Jenny-May While, Erica Grant
Production Manager – Alison Palmer
Technician – Aaron Gillies