Photo Flash: First Look at MY INSANE SHAKESPEARE at United Solo

By: Nov. 06, 2014
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"My Insane Shakespeare" by award-winning actor and director Arthur Elbakyan has completed its performances at the world's largest solo theatre festival, United Solo, receiving standing ovations. Elbakyan's highly anticipated play has been sold-out months in advance and has been a festival bestseller. Scroll down for exclusive photos!

"Being part of United Solo is a one-of-a-kind experience. I want to thank its founder and artistic director Omar Sangare and his team for creating this unique event," said Elbakyan.

"My Insane Shakespeare" is Elbakyan's first play and explores the complexity of relationships. A successful person, who faces the jealous betrayal of his closest friends, is sent off to a mental hospital. In isolation, the main character does not get bitter towards the world, but instead keeps his faith by finding a way to write, create and love again.

"I witnessed a wonderfully written story and a powerfully directed play. Elbakyan has masterfully combined Shakespeare's lines within his story of a man's struggle for meaning. I was captivated by it all: the commanding energy of the actor, his sincere eyes, beautiful speech and confident movement on the stage, his fantastic ability to convey the world with a simple pause, and his daring and boldness in breaking the fourth wall," said David Swidler, theatre critic.

Elbakyan has not only written, directed and performed the play, but also has created the stage design.

"There were five easels on stage, each with a canvas reversed from the audience's view. With each monologue, the actor turned over a canvas to reveal an original painting. We could see the reflection and power of that monologue in each painting, which allowed the audience to connect with the main character on a deeper level, to feel his inner world," added Swidler.

After the world premiere in New York City, "My Insane Shakespeare" will be traveling to Washington, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

For more information visit www.MyInsaneShakespeare.com or follow on Twitter @MyInsaneShakesp and Facebook.com/MyInsaneShakespeare.



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