After the success of Shadows and Gods, Theatrencore is now presenting In Search of Simone, an original play which pays tribute to Simone de Beauvoir (1908 - 1986) on the centenary of her birth. Simone de Beauvoir was one of the most prominent French existentialist philosophers and writers. Beauvoir produced a rich corpus of writings including works on ethics, feminism, fiction, autobiography, and politics. Her most famous and influential philosophical work, The Second Sex, heralded a feminist revolution and remains to this day a central text in the investigation of women's oppression and liberation. Simone de Beauvoir is often remembered for having been the life-long companion of Jean-Paul Sartre.
In search of Simone is based on the life and the writings of Beauvoir. Playwright and director Tyrone Grima presents the main themes of the universe of Simone de Beauvoir by presenting four stories. Initially these stories seem to be separate and not connected to each other. But as the plot thickens, one notices that there is much more than what meets the eye.
The four protagonists are Helena, Zaza, Francesca and Simone de Beauvoir herself. Helena cannot come to terms with the fact that she is ageing. Zaza discovers that her husband is having an affair. She attempts to be rational about it, but internally she is falling apart. Francesca gets involved in a love triangle that corrodes her relationship with her companion. Simone de Beauvoir travels regularly to the United States to visit her American lover, Nelson Algren, but has difficulties in committing herself.
The play takes the form of a confession in which each woman learns how to own her issues and find a solution or an alternative in their search for happiness.
The songs used in the play are by Ira Losco. Apart from being a dynamic and talented singer, Ira is also a gifted songwriter. Her lyrics and her music often transmit the issues and the thought processes of the modern woman. Therefore, her songs blend effectively with the underlying themes of the production.
The leading roles have been entrusted to four strong actresses. Monica Attard is one of the greatest local actresses and can boast of having performed a vast spectrum of roles. In this play she has yet another challenging role, which she is developing with great style and energy. The other three protagonists are the young actresses Mireille Mifsud, Sarah Camilleri and Daniela Coppini.
The cast also includes Daniel Debono, Keith Borg, Tyrone Grima, Shazia Khan Darmanin, Nadine Genovese, Stefan Farrugia, Francesca Borg Costanzi, and Carmel Serracino.
In Search of Simone will be staged at St James Cavalier between the 14 - 16 March at 8 pm. Tickets are available at the booking office of St James Cavalier. The performance is suitable for an adult audience.