The Immortals Typifies The “Fringe Spirit”

(Almost) Solo Production – The Immortals Typifies The “Fringe Spirit”.

Sixteen years since his last engagement with the Wellington Fringe, Wellington theatrician and media identity Dan Slevin returns with the same show - but this time as a solo performer.

In 1994, Dan produced and directed the World Premiere adaptation of Martin Amis’ acclaimed short story The Immortals at BATS Theatre. The production starred Wellington actor Donald Holder and won a “Pick of the Fringe” prize and an extended season.

“I always thought that The Immortals would be worth trying more than once with different actors,” says Dan. “It never occurred to me that the first new actor might be me! But as I got older and, dare I say it, more adventurous, I realised that I had to give it a go.”

Opening on Friday 12 February, The Immortals will be the first theatre show performed in The Pit Bar, the tiny snug situated in front of BATS Theatre. Capacity is restricted to only 22 people a performance.

The entire production was originally envisaged as a 100% one-man effort on Slevin’s part - acting, producing, marketing and publicity - but no theatre show can go on without the support of others. In this case, Wellington director Geoff Pinfield (On the Conditions and Possibilities of Helen Clark Taking Me as Her Young Lover) has come on board to provide directing assistance (as well as much-needed acting coaching). “Frankly, I’m terrified,” says Dan. “I’ve never tried anything like this before. It’s a real experiment. But that’s what the Fringe is for, isn’t it? To try things out. Give things a go.”

The Immortals is a dramatic monologue narrated by the world’s only immortal. While sadly watching humanity limp towards extinction, he spins tales and yarns of the people and places he has seen and the lessons he has learnt. The Immortals will be performed in The Pit Bar, Wellington, at 7.00pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from Thursday 11 February (Preview) to Saturday 27 February. Opening Night (and Press Night) is Friday 12 February. Ticket Prices are priced between $11 and $15 and include a glass of house wine, beer or a soft drink. Tickets are available from the BATS box office: 04 802 4175, www.bats.co.nz.

ENDS

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