By The Bog Of Cats

The play by the internationally successful Irish author is a peculiar variation on Euripides' famous tragedy Medea.  On the edge of a rural community, by a cat swamp - the crossroads of the real and supernatural worlds - lives Hester Swan, a woman who talks to ghosts, a woman both defiant and vulnerable. Her story unfolds over the course of a single day - the wedding day of the man who left her and their child to marry a younger and wealthier man. 

Marina Carr's play is both naturally stark and magical. It is about love and betrayal, money and past guilt. That's how good dramas from Euripides to Hollywood are based. What makes it unmistakably original is the quaint Irish perspective, the specific black humour, so close to us - perhaps thanks to our ancient Celtic roots.   Marina Carr began her literary career in the 1990s at the same time as Martin McDonagh - and it is thanks to them that Irish drama is now a concept. By the Cat's Marsh is her most acclaimed play.

Directed by Michal Lang, the Theatre pod Palmovkou production features experienced stalwarts of the cast, led by two-time Thalia Award winner Tereza Dočkalová, along with new members of the ensemble. The set and costumes will be designed by internationally acclaimed set designer Mirek Kaczmarek.  
Duration of the performance: 2 hours 30 minutes, including intermission.

directed by: Michal Lang
premiere: 7. 12. 2024  

Review:

"A well-executed production that managed to utilize its potential and deliver an emotional impact. The beginning was slightly hesitant, but the pace and atmosphere were gradually built up, beautifully drawing the audience into the play. A significant contribution to this was made by the excellent T. Dočkalová, who once again proves her ability to portray strong and deeply conflicted characters. In the child’s role, E. Teplá was a very pleasant surprise. Among others, H. Seidlová stood out, and in a smaller role, L. Frej delivered a remarkable performance. However, the synergy among all the actors works well here, and it shows in the final outcome. The set and accompanying music were also well-done. Overall, this is a production I would highly recommend."
80% Jan Pařízek, i-divadlo.cz, December 9, 2024

From audience reactions:
"The magical atmosphere created by the music and the set evokes a sense of vast space, prepared for your complete immersion. The play draws the viewer in with outstanding performances by the main heroine (T. Dočkalová) and her young daughter (E. Teplá). However, the other actors are not overshadowed. The almost "Lynchian" character of T. Vardan is proof of this. Thanks to Michal Lang for this Saturday premiere."

90% Fazol, i-divadlo.cz, December 12, 2024.

"It was an amazing experience! A beautiful play, with excellent performances by the actors. Even though the theme is quite dark, the play as a whole doesn't feel depressing at all! It is clear, comprehensible, and lightened just the right amount. One of the best variations on Medea I have ever seen ❤️ right after 'The Woman from Corinth' with Hana Maciuchová... Thank you for this wonderful experience, highly recommended!"
Pavla Hrdinová, Facebook.com, December 9, 2024

"Another pleasant surprise at Palmovka. The play gripped me right from the start, largely thanks to the fantastic T. Dočkalová. The story doesn’t shy away from its harshness, and you can sense where it’s heading. I appreciate the performance of young Emilie Teplá, and especially the incredible Hana Seidlová."
80% Braddy, i-divadlo.cz, December 9, 2024