Apostolos Kouroupakis
In the quirky world of Dimitris Foutsias, the consumption of meat is not just a culinary choice—it's downright illegal. ETHAL brings "Meatball," directed by Marina Vronti, to the stage, delivering a thought-provoking and often humorous take on veganism, political correctness, and societal norms.
Is veganism the pinnacle of modern living, or does it merely mask underlying hypocrisy? Do animals deserve equal rights as humans? Foutsias' theatrical piece navigates through these questions, presenting a comedic web of misunderstandings, social satire, and surreal humor.
Is veganism the pinnacle of modern living, or does it merely mask underlying hypocrisy? Do animals deserve equal rights as humans?
"Meatball" can be seen as a comedy of misunderstandings, a social satire, or even a surreal comedy. However, it defies a straightforward categorization as a play that merely aims to make the audience laugh—though that's not necessarily a bad thing. Watching "Meatball," I felt that all the contributors had a clear vision of what they wanted to achieve, playing out Foutsias' script and embodying the world of characters he crafted.
The play delves into dilemmas and inner thoughts, prompting the audience to ponder the society we live in today and how closely it resembles the dystopian world portrayed on stage. The actors, Gregoris Georgiou, George Evagorou, Dimitris Spyrou, Penny Foiniri, and Marilia Charidemou, skillfully balanced the comedic tightrope, delivering their lines with the required naturalness, especially considering the dystopian backdrop not too distant from our reality.
Director Marina Vronti masterfully maintained the delicate balance, ensuring the play didn't lose itself in the labyrinth of comedy. The actors, with their comic-tragic and consistent stage presence, brought forth dilemmas and subconscious thoughts without resorting to unnecessary movements or theatrical tricks, playing with the required authenticity. In doing so, they made the audience contemplate the society we live in today, questioning how far removed it is from the one portrayed in the performance.
Special mention goes to Dimitris Spyrou for his contribution to the play, particularly in music composition and sound design. His musical backdrop skillfully dressed the world of the four protagonists, acting as a subtle observer, perhaps their second eye or even their conscience.
"Meatball" at ETHAL successfully conveys the messages of the script, making the audience realize that, indeed, a meatball can disrupt the balance of a couple, a group of friends, and an entire society.
