Performances 25-30 January 2027 in the Studio

Set in France, 1947

A dark, absurdist and psychological play about two servant sisters, Claire and Solange, who work for a wealthy Madame that they both love and hate. In her absence they play out intense sadomasochistic role-reversal games, ultimately attempting to murder her to escape their monotonous, subservient and oppressive lives.

This is a one act play with three actors and will be performedin the studio. During the rehearsals we will explore Genet’s fascination with artifice; explore deeper his desire to remove us from nature and reminding the audience that theatre is fake, a sham and imitation. The intimacy of the studio is perfect for this, with limited set and lights stripping away the theatricality. The action will be quite physical and intense.

Characters:

Solange the elder of the sisters age: between 28 and 39 working class

Claire the younger of the sisters age: between 25 and 37 working class

Madame their mistress age: between 25 and 45 High society, wealthy

Audition pieces:

1. This piece has all three characters.

Top of page 65 Claire: ‘What’s in the kitchen? Eh? We’ve got to eat. To be strong. Come along, you’ll advise me. The phenobarbital. – to – bottom of page 71 Solange: ‘We wanted to surprise Madame. Monsieur’s out on bail.’

2. This piece is for the two sisters.

Bottom of page 46 Claire: ‘Let’s hurry! Madame’ll be back. Help me. It’s over already. And you didn’t get to the end.’ – to – bottom of page 48 Claire: ‘ I understand, don’t explain.