Grand Guignol

Tickets and Information

Visit the Grand Guignol website:
http://www.annextheatre.org

Although little-known to contemporary audiences, the shockingly graphic depictions of violence and gore that characterized the Grand Guignol theater of the early 20th century continues to exert a recognizable, if little appreciated influence on modern dramatic conventions. But the genre was also notable for its eclectic juxtaposition of theatrical styles, as well as for addressing wider cultural and moral themes such as the dehumanizing effects of technology, and the increasing sense of social isolation that resulted.

Grand Guignol presents two programs of readings and staged works, updated and revitalized for contemporary audiences, emphasizing the genre's role as social commentary, while maintaining the whimsical spirit that resides at its core.

SCHEDULE

Program A: April 3, 4, 5

The Kiss in the Dark by Maurice Level
The Widow by Eugène Héros and Léon Abric

Program B: April 10, 11, 12

The Castle of Slow Death by André de Lorde and Henri Bauche
Lighthouse Keepers by Paul Autier and Paul Cloquemin
On the Telephone by Charles Foley and André de Lorde