One of the most popular and important works in Romanian literature, Ion Luca Caragiale's satire "A Lost Letter" directed by Toma Enache, is set to return to the National Opera.
"A Lost Letter" is 141-year old Romanian play and remains one of the country's most popular and important works.
Written in 1884 by Ion Luca Caragiale as a poke in the ribs of politicians of that time, the satire has not lost any of its powerful impact to make simple but effective points.
The drama and comedy revolve around what goes on behind the scenes and in the corridors of power and the passions that fuel deep desires.
Ștefan Tipătescu is played by Aurelian Temișan, and Monica Davidescu plays the role of Zoe Trahanache, the politician's mistress.
The actors' costumes are a strong, visual part of the satirical message. Director Toma Enache collaborated with Doina Levintza, who dressed the actors in black and white to suggest that apparent morality actually hides hypocrisy and compromise.
"She surprised us with this vision, everything is in black and white, except for Zoe, who is colourful," says Davidescu. "She clearly wanted to say that everything in politics wears black and white, there are no shades of gray. Otherwise, those who are around, or who are clearly state institutions, wear colors."
Sentiments shared by the director the piece, Toma Enache: "I liked it, we said to bring in the only splash of color, so to speak, Zoe, with a red dress and a burgundy one, so she is the splash of color in this black and white world."
Before its premiere in Bucharest last year, the show toured in four other cities as part of a national tour. Now, those who have not yet had the chance to see the play will have another opportunity from next month A Lost Letter embarks on another limited tour of the country.
