Phaedra in Flames is a modern adaptation of the classic love drama, written by Nino Haratischwili (known for, among other works, The Eighth Life (for Brilka)). Starring Malou Gorter as Queen Phaedra, Yela de Koning as her forbidden love Persea, and live music by the New European Ensemble. Do you dare to seize your freedom when the world keeps you trapped?
“Malou Gorter displays immense strength in the leading role of Phaedra” ★★★★ NRC
The power of love
Phaedra, Queen of Athens, is trapped in an unhappy marriage to her husband Theseus. Everything changes when she meets her future daughter-in-law Persea. This young woman shakes up everyone and everything around her, recklessly challenging the existing power structures. Phaedra becomes enchanted by Persea’s fierce strength. A secret, passionate relationship develops, with devastating consequences.
Raw, visual and poetic
Director Ola Mafaalani made her name with raw, visual and poetic productions such as Othello, Wings of Desire and Fellini. Until 2016, she led the Noord Nederlands Toneel. Since then, she has mainly created large-scale productions for opera companies and abroad, including in Berlin and Riga. Now, for the first time since the theatre hit Borgen (2016), she returns to the main stage. Composer Krists Auznieks wrote new music, performed live by four musicians from the New European Ensemble. Alongside Malou Gorter, known for productions including Oogappels, De Joodse Raad and Het Jaar van Fortuyn, and Yela de Koning, the cast includes Gustav Borreman, Yamill Jones, Rick Paul van Mulligen and Sander Plukaard.
Headphoto: Anne Claire de Breij
Photos in gallery: Bart Grietens
