A theatre production by Divadlo Feste, based on Jakub Stanjura’s bestselling novel.

In his bestselling novel, Jakub Stanjura follows the seemingly ordinary relationship between Daniela and Štěpán. Gradually, however, we discover that Štěpán acts systematically towards his partner, bringing her increasingly under his control. Strangely, Daniela blames herself for the conflicts his behaviour causes, rather than her boyfriend. Štěpán lavishes excessive care on Daniela and, under this pretext, takes over both her professional and personal life. Daniela’s personality disappears, leaving only a body entirely subject to her partner. Psychology calls this common form of psychological manipulation “gaslighting”. The novel’s thorough portrayal of this phenomenon has earned it widespread popularity.

Before the performance, there will be a discussion with writer Jakub Stanjura, moderated by Martin Fryč. The author will also sign books.

SRPNY – production credits

• Script: Katarína Koišová
• Director: Jiří Honzírek
• Set and costume design: Marie Štěpánová
• Cast: Markéta Richtrová, Ondřej Kokorský

Divadlo Feste

Divadlo Feste is an independent theatre company now in its eighteenth year in Brno. It has staged more than 50 productions, presented both in Czechia and abroad. As a company creating original work, it often leaves traditional stages behind and performs outside theatre buildings.

Its repertoire focuses on taboo, social and political subjects, with its artists often working in urban public spaces. Divadlo Feste connects the arts and the humanities in a distinctive way through collaborations with universities and non-profit organisations.

The company takes its name from the fool in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Like Feste, who provokes with questions and holds up a mirror to the politics of the countess’s court, the company seeks to foster an open civil society by asking urgent questions through theatre.