In the same way that everyone sees something different in an inkblot, people want different things from their theatre-going experiences. If you’re someone who likes to have a lot of background on what the experience will be like before you come to the theatre, read on. This page focuses on CONTENT INFORMATION. If you would like information about the artists and the process CLICK HERE.
There may be some low-key spoilers ahead.
Return to the main REYKJAVIK page for schedule and ticketing information
Reykjavík may not be appropriate for children under 18. Parental discretion is advised.
Photo by Ryan Maxwell from the REYKJAVIK Room at THE BAR BETWEEN WORLDS (August 2018)
WHAT HAPPENS?
Themes: love, lust, infidelity, nature, relationships, trust, sex, sexuality, LGBTQ+, supernatural, birds, murder, tourism, folklore.
REYKJAVIK opens with James, an American who’s traveled to Iceland to see the northern lights. He hasn’t been able to see them so he ends up in a bar with a malevolent pair of men buying him drinks, seducing him and leading him to dark places. The play moves on to other locations across the city, looking in on queer couples, each in transformative moments in their relationships. We meet locals, travelers, hospitality workers, questionable birds and a variety of shapeshifters as we journey through one dark night at the end of the earth.
IS THIS PLAY FUNNY OR SAD OR WEIRD OR WHAT?
Yes.
As with a lot of the work Rorschach chooses, REYKJAVIK explores a range of human (and supernatural) experiences. This play has some very dark themes, overt sexuality, and a few truly hilarious moments. Ultimately the script is about the lengths we are willing to go to to find the human connections we crave.
IS THIS PLAY GOING TO BE APPROPRIATE FOR MY MOM/KID/PASTOR/CO-WORKER/1ST DATE?
“Appropriate” is a relative word, but here are a few things to know when deciding who to bring to the theatre with you:
We recommend our audiences be 18+, (we will accommodate those under 18 if accompanied by a guardian)
Language: Yes, you’ll hear a fair amount of adult language.
Explicit Sexual Content: The production contains simulated oral sex, explicit post-coital conversations, discussions of sexual fantasies and sex workers.
Violence: There are several moments of staged violence, including blood and knives. There is a reference to a sexual assault facilitated by a drugged drink, but this does not take place on stage.
Note the “themes” list above in the “What Happens?” section for more details
HOW LONG IS IT?
About 90 minutes.
