A wordless play performed by actors behind masks may not seem to be the likeliest of candidates for a theatrical experience brimming with emotional depth. In the hands of Spain’s Kulunka Teatro company, André & Dorine beautifully explores the ups and downs of the human condition.
The title characters are an elderly couple who begin their story as a married team who have obviously spent a lot of time together. Maybe too much! In the close quarters of their home, they push each others buttons. He is typing. She is playing her cello. He expresses his annoyance by banging on the desk. “Can’t you see what I doing here?” is the unspoken question.
André & Dorine chronicles the latter stages of their life and her descent into the ravages of Alzheimer’s. As a vehicle to present confusion, the usage of masks is inspired especially in one particularly heartbreaking scene. The masks also imply a realistic universality where the storytelling could represent people we know and love.
All is not gloomy, however, in this tale. A series of flashbacks allow us to see these two during some of the biggest moments of their personal journeys. They are often very funny and charmingly staged. As a result of the shifting timeframes, the portraits painted are vivid, achingly familiar and result in a thoughtful contemplation on the circle of life.
André and Dorine had a son who is also a character in this play. You recognize him (and yourself) as an adult child with parents who are certainly loving and caring while also being stereotypically annoying. A handful of other minor roles are amusing, most notably a priest. Three actors portray the main characters (at different ages) and all the side characters. Transitions are fluid and clear.
The family deals with some of the mental challenges associated with this disease. A great scene contrasts how best to cope. Both father and son have their individual perspectives and biases. How best to deal with increasingly odd behavior? A lifetime of shared experience and generational differences are thrust into view. The comedic touches which build this impressive scene are delightful.
Performers José Dault, Garbiñe Insausti and Edu Cárcamo wrote this play along with Director Iñaki Rikarte and Rolando San Martín. The levels of emotional development throughout a wordless and faceless show are truly memorable as are Ms. Insausti’s masks themselves. Sets, costumes, lighting and music are all excellent. There are so many creative elements within this production of André & Dorine which make this United States’ tour worth seeking out.
André & Dorine is being performed in New York (Theatre at St. Clement’s) through May 29, 2022 and then in Los Angeles (Lupe Ontiveros Cinema Center) from June 8 – 19th. Here is a You Tube link for a preview of the show.