Current Affairs The Makropulos Case, directed by Robert Wilson, premieres at Estates Theatre

Miroslav Donutil, Soňa Červená, photo: CTK A little earlier Jan Velinger spoke to Michal Dočekal, programme director at the National Theatre and asked him how he saw the new production.

“It’s pretty significant for us not only for this season but overall, because one of the roles or duties of the National Theatre is to present classic Czech authors. And who is bigger than Karel Čapek as a classic in terms of the 20th century? I am also really glad that I was able to convince Mr Wilson to direct the play: it’s very unusual to have a world-famous director staging a Czech classic.”

What are some elements that Robert Wilson brought to the stage that are unconventional but, say, typical for him as a director?

“Very typical is his very precise and stylized work with actors: the acting in his productions is very different from normal psychological portrayals you’d see in other performances. He is inspired very much by Japanese art and the avant garde of the 20th century and he works very visually, basing a lot of emphasis on the use of light.”

Miroslav Donutil, Soňa Červená, photo: CTK This isn’t his first production in the Czech capital, I understand…

“No it isn’t. He worked twice on operas. But this is the first time he has worked here in the spoken word.”

How would you say that collaboration between the director and the actors went?

“It was very tough for them at times because rehearsals were very long and there was a lot of physical acting. Some sessions lasted more than 10 hours. Many in the cast are not that young so it wasn’t easy but they put everything into it and worked very hard. I was told by many of them that they considered it a lifetime experience to work with Mr Wilson.”

The Makropulos Case has often been described as a detective comedy and ahead of the premiere Mr Wilson himself urged the audience not to hold back and to laugh when they wanted. Did they follow his cue; are there many funny moments?

“On paper, if you were reading the script I’m not sure you could say it was funny. But if you see it as a play, it is. The production is funny and I am sure you’ll laugh. It’s all done in a very unique way.”

Jan Bidlas, photo: CTK So, would you say the audience response on Thursday was what you hoped for?

“Well, it’s always difficult to gauge the audience’s reaction but there was a 10 minute standing ovation and I can tell you that’s not very common in Czech theatres.”