Ubu Roi

One of the most excessive political caricatures, Ubu Roi ranks with the most original and powerful burlesques of all time. An explosive parable about man’s hunger for power and wealth, this outrageous play shocked audiences when it was first produced in 1896. Elements of Macbeth and Richard the III are structurally blended with Alfred Jarry’s unique irreverent style as Ma and Pa Ubu, unsatisfied with their position, begin an epic and violent take-over of the Kingdom. The result is a wildly funny–and perhaps frighteningly recognizable-take on the cruelty of despots and the absurdity of the human condition.

Empty Space Theatre presents this world premiere adaptation by Ki Gottberg.