Visit, or The Old Lady Comes to Call

Claire Zachanassian, a wealthy woman, returns to her hometown in Slurry, New York, after the post-war recession. The locals hope her arrival will bring prosperity, but they soon realize that it will come at a terrible price. Tony Kushner's adaptation of Friedrich Dürrenmatt's revenge play, "The Visit," opened in the Olivier auditorium of the National Theatre in London in February 2020, starring Lesley Manville and Hugo Weaving.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 136 pages
Publication date: 20 February 2020
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

In the town of Slurry, New York, the post-war recession has taken a toll. Claire Zachanassian, an improbably beautiful and impenetrably terrifying woman, returns to her hometown as the world's richest woman. The locals hold onto the hope that her arrival will bring about a change in their fortunes, but they soon come to realize that prosperity will come at a terrible price.

Friedrich Dürrenmatt's visionary revenge play, one of the great achievements of modern German-language theatre, has been brought to life in a remarkable adaptation by the acclaimed playwright Tony Kushner. This captivating new version of "The Visit" premiered in the Olivier auditorium of the National Theatre in London in February 2020, directed by Jeremy Herrin, and featuring the talented Lesley Manville and Hugo Weaving in lead roles.

The play revolves around the unexpected arrival of Claire's estranged niece, Sophie, who comes to visit her wealthy aunt after years of being absent. As Sophie settles into her aunt's opulent home, she begins to uncover dark secrets and unsettling truths about her family's past. What starts as a simple visit quickly turns into a chilling confrontation, as Sophie uncovers the shocking truth about her aunt's past and the lengths she will go to protect her own reputation and wealth.

Kushner's adaptation of Dürrenmatt's play is a masterclass in storytelling, seamlessly blending the themes of power, corruption, and familial relationships. The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, with each possessing their own motivations and desires. Lesley Manville's portrayal of Claire Zachanassian is particularly noteworthy, as she effortlessly transitions between the charming and manipulative exterior to the underlying vulnerability and fear that drives her actions. Hugo Weaving, as Sophie's uncle, delivers a powerful and nuanced performance, capturing the complexity of his character's emotions and motivations.

The production design of "The Visit" is stunning, with the Olivier auditorium transformed into a luxurious and opulent setting that reflects the wealth and privilege of Claire's family. The lighting, sound, and costumes all contribute to the atmosphere of suspense and tension that pervades the play. The use of language is also masterful, with Kushner's poetic and evocative prose capturing the essence of Dürrenmatt's writing while also adding a contemporary twist.

Overall, "The Visit" is a must-see production that offers a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. It is a testament to the enduring power of great literature and the ability of talented artists to bring it to life on stage. Whether you are a fan of revenge plays or simply seeking a compelling and engaging theatrical experience, this adaptation is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Weight: 150g
Dimension: 215 x 135 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848429598