The Amorous Adventures of Anatol

This Adaptation by Morris Panych Debuts in Vancouver, BC

Feb 22, 2008

The world premier of The Amorous Adventures of Anatol, from the original play by Arthur Schnitzler, debuts at the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre.

This new adaptation of Arthur Schnitzler’s original Viennese play, Anatol, is taken on by Canadian playwright Morris Panych. He focuses less on the sexual frankness of Schnitzler’s creation and more on the fast-paced, absurd style he’s known for. This production is an exciting one, as it marks the world debut of this adaptation in Vancouver, British Columbia.

The Amorous Adventures of AnatolThe play opens with the lovely scrolling writing of the episode number and name of a woman, creating an atmospheric starting point. The audience is then introduced to Anatol, the leading man who immediately reveals his playboy-esque manners.

The play is set in turn-of-the-last-century Vienna, and protagonist Anatol exposes his neurotic attitudes about the past and present women in his life. With no through line to speak of, his adventures are seen in seven scenes featuring one woman each who make up his amorous history.

Jennifer Lines, The Women-

Set Design

A fin de siècle set design welcomes theatregoers with elegant lighting. The unique backdrop is actually 240 drawers filled with mischief, while also doubling as other set pieces. To give further explanation would spoil the fun. Otherwise, the set is smartly sparse, filled more by the personalities of the actors than by furniture.

Period Versus Contemporary TheatreAlthough the play takes place in early 20th-century Vienna, Mike Shara, who plays Anatol, uses many modern characterizations. In combination with Jennifer Lines’ gorgeous period costumes, this creates a bit of confusion. Or maybe it just adds to the absurd theatre that Morris Panych is trying to create? All in all, the play is an entertaining romp through the mind of a young and amorous young man. The opening night crowd loved the constant jokes and laughed in all the right spots. If you’re looking for a fun night out at the theatre, The Amorous Adventures of Anatol is a great choice.

The Amorous Adventures of Anatol by Arthur Schnitzler, adapted and directed by Morris Panych

The copyright of the article The Amorous Adventures of Anatol in North American Modern Theatre is owned by Lori Henry. Permission to republish The Amorous Adventures of Anatol in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.