1913. A group of young people celebrate Christmas in Paris. They share interests, a love for the arts and a deep aversion to common morals. An international circle of poets and artists, they wish to establish new trends in painting and literature, believing that Beauty will save the world.

One of the hottest topics of conversation is war. Some think any war is the greatest catastrophe, while others think war is a necessary evil, destroying old ideas and ideals, clearing the way for new ones. When war becomes a painful and terrifying reality less than a year later, they are forced to drastically re-examine their principles and beliefs.

Through his innovative 'sound drama' technique, where music, movement and rhythm heighten the dramatic action, Russian director Vladimir Pankov's new production explores the deep psychological and physical impact of war and how through art we can help provide a vision for the future.

Pankov possesses a unique ability to hear literature and the world around him as a universe of sounds

Ruzzkaya Gazeta

A co-production between the Chekhov International Theatre Festival and the Edinburgh International Festival.