FESTEN
By David Eldridge
Presented by Red Phoenix Theatre & Holden Street Theatres
Helge is the patriarch of a chain of restaurants and it’s his 70th birthday. Surrounded by his wife, two sons, daughter and close family friends all is ready for a celebratory dinner at his large country estate. The only person missing is eldest son Christian’s twin sister, Linda, who recently committed suicide. Her painful absence leaves a jagged hole in the festivities. In the middle of dinner Christian stands to give the first toast. In order to decide which speech to give he asks his father to choose one of two envelopes. The choice leads Christian to make a startling accusation and, even as the disbelieving guests are choosing sides, this powerful play slowly unwraps the truth.
THE REVIEWS ARE IN...
"In its style and characters the play and its production sing the filmic idiosyncrasies of its Danish origin, to which end, director Nick Fagan has cast it superbly." - Barefoot Review
"SA Ensemble Shines in Family Drama. ... It's a Must-see" - The Advertiser
"Festen is a powerful, important piece of theatre that deserves full houses. It packs an emotional punch reminding us that things are not always as they seem!" - Stage Whispers
"It is high quality theatre, as we have come to expect from Red Phoenix, but it is an uncomfortable and unsettling experience." – TASA Online
"Red Phoenix has, yet again, delivered an exceptional piece of powerful theatre." - Broadway World
"Red Phoenix Theatre never shies away from confronting theatre and in the hands of director Nick Fagan, who has dealt with this skillfully, they have another fine production to add to their triumphs." - Glam Adelaide
"This play is an important and much-needed exposé of a too rarely depicted part of the cultural landscape." -Global Media Post
"This Red Phoenix Theatre production of Festen is everything you wish theatre to be.
It has been exquisitely cast, the director (Nick Fagan) has thoughtfully managed the rhythm and flow of the action, the production team has pulled out all the stops, and the actors are each unrelenting in their focus and presence." - The Adelaide Show
"Red Phoenix Theatre has once again assembled a large cast that is exceptional." - The Clothesline
"Red Phoenix Theatre is renowned for bringing unperformed plays to Adelaide and has built a solid reputation for delivering excellent quality theatre to Adelaide audiences....Well done on another standout production." - Weekend Notes
David Eldridge's compelling play is adapted from Thomas Vinterborg's screenplay of the 1998 Danish Dogme film Festen, also known as The Celebration. Eldridge’s stage adaptation received its world premier in London in 2004.
Festen is directed by Nick Fagan and features an outstanding cast including Adrian Barnes, Cheryl Douglas, Brant Eustice, Sienna Fagan, Gary George, Joh Hartog, Claire Keen, Stuart Pearce, Geoff Revell, Russell Slater, Georgia Stockham, Stephen Tongun, Nigel Tripodi and Lyn Wilson.
Due to the current climate strict Covid restrictions will be in place, please follow all rules on density, social distancing and follow directions from staff.
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OUR COVID PLAN
HST is incredibly excited to present a safe and secure theatre experience. To ensure public safety we have implemented a COVID Safe plan. Social distancing, density and hygiene practices will be adhered to at all times. Only attend the event if you are feeling well. If you have any COVID-19 symptoms please ensure you get tested as soon as possible and follow social isolation guidelines until you recover.
If you are unable to attend your event please call 8225 8888 or email manager@holdenstreettheatres.com to discuss your ticketing options.
The safety and health of our patrons, staff and performers is our main priority and we will do everything we can to ensure a fun and safe evening out.
Genre: Theatre
Season: 2022
Dates: 26 May - 4 June
Duration: 110 min
(including 20 min interval)
Times:
26 - 28 May; 1 - 4 June: 7:30pm
29 May: 2pm
Tickets:
General Admission: $27
Concession: $21
Group (6+): $23
Venue: The Studio
34 Holden Street, Hindmarsh SA 5007
FREE PARKING AVAILABLE
HST are making every effort to make our performances accessible to all patrons. Accessible seating is available in The Studio. Please note there is no accessible toilet at this time of the year.
