E. Thomalen

The Metamorphosis E. Thomalen

Poetic drama 5m, 3f. Some doubling, 1 Klezmer musician. Dreams are sometimes considered metaphors that help us understand the events in our lives. In this dramatic adaptation of Kafka's novella, Gregor Samsa awakens into a dream in which he finds himself transformed into a cockroach. The Stage Manager "summons" the dream-play while a mime and a musician communicate his thoughts and emotions, invoking a nightmarish atmosphere. Set in early 20th century Prague and written in verse, Thomalen captures the surreal humor and pathos of the story. This work opens a space in the school community for a great work of world literature with special relevance to the pain and struggles of adolescence and young adulthood. Requires an actor with strong mimic talent. Winner of the American Theatre and Education, Unpublished Play Reading Project.