A journey of love and desire in La Ronde at the Baxter Studio
In La Ronde, ten characters navigate the complexities of love and intimacy in a modern adaptation of Schnitzler's classic. Running from June 20 to July 12, this performance promises a captivating exploration of desire and connection
Cast members of La Ronde Awethu Hleli, Carlo Daniels, Berenice Barbier, Lyle October, Nolufefe Ntshuntshe, Aiden Scott and Tamzin Williams
Image: supplied
Arthur Schnitzler’s provocative play, La Ronde, will show at the Baxter Studio from Friday June 20 to Saturday July 12 at 8pm, with Saturday matinees at 3pm.
Written in 1897 by Austrian author and dramatist, Schnitzler’s La Ronde is a story of ten recognisable characters from different parts of society, all searching for escape and connection through sex.
In a world obsessed with visibility, image and performance, this modern adaptation of La Ronde probes a world where intimacy is currency, sex is a calculated strategy and everyone is performing for someone.
La Ronde is French for 'the round' and refers to a dance performed in circle formation. It also means ‘from one person to another’ and creates a metaphor for Schnitzel’s play, driven by raw physicality, pulsating contemporary music and visceral dance. It takes a funny, provocative look at relationships now, delving into the complexities of power, desire and the relentless pursuit of connection. Through the ten characters and ten intimate encounters, it offers a sharp look at who holds power, who is exploited and who is seen.
Directed by Leila Henriques, the story takes place in 2025 with an all Fleur du Cap award-winning cast and creative team, including The Baxter’s resident Fire’s Burning company; Awethu Hleli, Lyle October, Tamzin Daniels, Nolufefe Ntshuntshe and Carlo Daniels, along with Berenice Barbier and Aidan Scott.
“We become involved with these ten characters in the play, all from different walk of life, all in search of something more - any kind of escape and intimacy with one another,” says Henriques. “The play is funny, awkward and often poignant, as we watch how the characters chase love. It is a deeply human story and anyone who has ever pursued love will be able to recognise themselves in it,” said Ms Henriques.
Crystal Finck (the Aunty Merle, The Musical trilogy) is the assistant director and choreographer; the set design is by Patrick Curtis (Betrayal, Life & Times of Michael K), costume design is by Wolf Britz (Metamorphoses, Kiss of the Spider Woman), and the lighting design is by Franky Steyn (Neighbourhood, Metamorphoses) and music curation is by Keir Mantzios.
La Ronde has an age restriction of 16 years and parental guidance is advised. Book through Webtickets. For discounted block bookings of 10 or more, contact Mark Dobson on 0021 680 39 or email mark.dobson@uct.ac.za