Kasser Theater is gearing up for another great performance with ‘The Book of Disquiet.’
After astounding European success, Michel van der Aa’s The Book of Disquiet has made its way to America and will be premiering here in Montclair, N.J.
Award winning Dutch director Michel van der Aa is bringing the American Premiere of The Book of Disquiet to the Alexander Kasser Theater in Montclair. This brilliant stage production is an adaption of Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa’s original unfinished bookwork. Starring English actor Samuel West, accompanied by musical director Alan Pierson, this theater piece is an astounding autobiography of Pessoa’s alter ego, Bernando Soares.
The Book of Disquiet represents Soares transitions of mood and state of mind portrayed through a combination of music, acting and film. The story will be narrated through filmed images screened around a single actor on stage. Exclusively, in the UK and American productions, the role of Soares will be played by UK’s very own Samuel West. He is most known for his role as Leonard Bast in the film Howards End.
“Sam West has been really wonderful in rehearsals. He made the part his own and I can’t wait to see it on stage,” said Michel van der Aa in regards to West’s contribution to the production.
Michel van der Aa’s The Book of Disquiet will premiere on Thursday, Jan.21 at 7:30 p.m. in the Alexander Kasser Theater at Montclair State University. Succeeding performances will be held on Friday, Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m., Jan. 23 at 8:00 p.m. and Jan. 24 at 3:00 p.m.
“[I’m] really looking forward to this premiere in Montclair,” said van der Aa. “We’ve been talking about doing this project for a long time, so I’m happy the moment is finally here! Also, the venue is perfect for the show.”
The production initially premiered in Linz, Austria where it received phenomenal reviews from critics. Klaus Maria Brandauer’s success as the original Bernando Soares sparked The Book of Disquiet’s tour in Poland, Portugal, and The Netherlands. Since then, the show has received worldwide popularity and is now beginning to attract American audiences.
“I find [there are] similar challenges on each location, but fortunately we travel with the same core crew and team, so everybody knows the piece well and it’s a fluent process,” said van der Aa in regards to the overall production.
The show is one you won’t want to miss! Tickets are obtainable on the Peak Performances website www.peakperfs.org or at the Alexander Kasser Theater Box Office. Tickets are $20 for the general public and free for all MSU students with their school ID. Parking will be available in the Red Hawk Parking Deck adjacent to the Box Office.
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