Spring, a contrast of llum i ombra
With the arrival of spring, the streets covered with greenery and the warm sun seem to invite happiness. However, within the walls of the National Theater of Catalonia, the premiere of anatomy of a suicide reminds us that reality can be much tougher. This montage, directed by Gloria Balañà Altimira and based on the work of the British playwright Alice Birch, addresses topics such as depression and suicide in an atmosphere that contrasts with the outside gem.
Alice Birch: an outstanding voice of contemporary theater
Born in 1986, Alice Birch has become a key figure in the British theater scene, with works that challenge conventions. His contribution to the world of series, such as Normal People and Succession, has been recognized with several awards. His work has begun to take place on the Catalan stage, and an anatomy of suicide is one of his most ambitious explorations.
A temporary journey
Anatomy of a suicide presents the intertwined lives of three women through three decades: 1973, 1998 and 2028. Each character, Carol, Anna and Bonnie, represents a generation of the same family, exploring their individual struggles with mental health and their consequences. The simultaneous narrative between the times creates a powerful effect, with moments that resonate between the different times.
A montage that requires emotions
As the work progresses, the performances of the protagonists become the emotional engine of the story. Marta Ossó plays Carol, a complex and sad figure, carrying the load of depression and suicide attempts. His interpretation, loaded with nuances, transports us to his deep despair, while his niece, Anna, played by Maria Ribera, shows us another angle of the fight against mental health, marked by drugs and rebellion.
Family dynamics and their impact
Bonnie, the granddaughter, played by Patrícia Bargalló, brings a different perspective, with a life seemingly normal but marked by the weight of the family past. Its need to close the family pain circle is a powerful metaphor for how mental health is transmitted from generation to generation.
Humor and Llegeresa in a difficult context
Between the shadows of the narrative, the interventions of the secondary characters provide a touch of humor and lightness. The work, despite its gravity, does not give up moments of relief, thanks to the performances of Ester Cort and Andrea Portella, who contrast with the emotional intensity of the protagonists.
A stage and emotional challenge
Anatomy of suicide is not just a show, it is an experience that challenges both the actors and the public. Its structure demands constant attention, with a ritornell that can be both captivating and overwhelming. The stage design of Ona Grau and the costume of Marta Rafa complement the atmosphere of the work, creating a space that reflects the emotional complexity of the characters.
Final reflections on mental health
Anatomy of suicide is a powerful reminder of the importance of talking about mental health and the struggles that many people live in silent. Its strength lies in the ability to reflect on the topics we often avoid. For those looking for a deep and honest look at human pain, this work is a journey that is worth undertaking.
Do not forget to enjoy spring before or after the performance, to balance the darkness that can be felt inside the theater.
In addition, this Friday, May 23, a postfunction colloquium will be held with the author Marta Marín-Dómine, an opportunity to deepen the themes that the work addresses. More details available on the TNC website.
