
Death by satire
Kathy will direct Dying For It, Moira Buffini’s new free adaptation of Nikolai Erdman’s satirical comedy The Suicide from 15 March until 28 April 2007 at the Almeida Theatre in Islington, London.
The classic comedy was banned by Stalin before a single performance, and this “inspired by” verison centres on Semyon, unemployed, living in the hallway and watching his wife Masha slave all the hours God sends. When his last hope to earn money and gain self-respect disappears, he decides to take his own life. Word gets out and Semyon finds himself inundated with visitors begging him to die on their behalf. On the night he is to shoot himself they hold a party, at which point events spiral to a climax.
Writer Moira Buffini’s previous work includes Dinner which was presented at the National Theatre before transferring to the West End, Love Play – commissioned by the RSC, Gabriel for Soho Theatre, Silence – commissioned by the National Theatre Studio and presented by Birmingham Rep and Doomsday Girl, also presented by the RSC.
Tickets for the play are not available at the moment but can be bought from the Almedia on 020 7359 4404, or online at Almeida.co.uk. They will cost between £6.00 and £29.50. Performances: Monday to Saturday at 7.30pm, Saturday matinees at 3.00pm. The Almeida is located at Almeida Street, Islington, London, N1 1TA.
The cast has yet to be announced.

