The Brief Life and Mysterious Death of Boris III, King of Bulgaria
Arcola Theatre - Studio 1 - September 2023
The untold but true tale of how Bulgaria saved its nearly 50,000 Jewish citizens during the war and then how the world forgot all about it. Set to live folk music, this “Hamilton-esque” (The Stage) story follows a bunch of underdogs as they stand up to Hitler.
Bulgaria just told Hitler to bog off!
‘Whether a jazz fan, a history buff or just someone who loves gripping real-life stories, this is a must see.’ (Kyril, Prince of Preslav, Boris III’s Grandson).
Cast:
Lawrence Boothman
Joseph Cullen
Clare Fraenkel
David Leopold
Sasha Wilson
Creative Team:
Writer - Joseph Cullen
Writer - Sasha Wilson
Director & Dramaturg - Hannah Haeur-King
Producer - Claire Gilbert
Lighting Designer - Will Alder
Set Designer - Sorcha Corcoran
Costume Designer - Helen Stewart
Assistant Producer - Lorra Videv
Stage Manager (Arcola) - Maddie Whiffin
Stage Manager (Edinburgh) - Zoe MacKinnon
Production Photographer - Héctor Manchego
Reviews
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"The costumes by Helen Stewart, set design by Sorcha Corcoran and lighting by Will Alder complement each other well to create the perfect atmosphere and timepiece"
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"Will Alder's lighting is neatly pointed"
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"Clever lighting and swift scene changes also allow abrupt and demanding switches from absurdity to deadly seriousness"
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"Out of the Forest Theatre's Boris, for the frivolity, laughter, and enjoyment the audience may deservedly take from the play, possesses sharpness - encapsulated by a strikingly effective scene, more chilling than it has any right to be - and all it takes is a pressed grey hat and coat on a stand, with just the right purpose of lighting"
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"Cullen's performance of Boris III addressing the Bulgarian people detailing the extent of his 'alliance' to the Nazi party, is both terrifying and awesome to watch. Tonally it is such a stark contrast from everything that has come before it. His perfect acting choices, aided by the score, lighting and sound design, makes this moment memorable for all of the right reasons"
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"...the terrifying truth of the world at war is highlighted in stark reality when the King meets Hitler in person for a crucial discussion on the deportation of 50,000 Jews. Staged with such simplicity in dim light, this is a chilling, dramatic scene"
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"Set and lighting (Sorcha Corcoran and Will Alder respectively) are simple and modern. Filament bulbs habg over the stage and King Boris' throne remains on stage throughout never leaving us in doubt who this show is about"