"Is Science the Key to Power?"

"Is Science the Key to Power?" is a performance by Teatru Przypadków Feralnych based on Eugène Ionesco's drama "The Lesson", a key work of European absurdist theatre. The plot follows a Professor, a science fanatic, who takes on a new Student and subjects her to grueling physical and mental training. The action unfolds in a cardboard world where meaning is created solely by the characters' intentions. The creators avoid a heavy atmosphere because comedy is one of the fundamental principles of absurdist dramaturgy. An unexpected sequence of events intertwines with witty dialogues, and the whole piece speaks to the dangers of extremism, including radical thought and ideology. The premiere took place in February 2023 at Klub Pod Jaszczurami. Since then, the production has been shown at nationwide festivals, including KKM m-teatr organized by Bałtycki Teatr Dramatyczny in Koszalin and at Mały Festiwal Form Artystycznych in Nowy Sącz. "The Lesson" is also a beneficiary of the Fundacja Lotto im. Haliny Konopackiej grant program and was presented during a tour of the Lower Silesian voivodeship (Zgorzelec, Milicz, Bielawa, Kłodzko). Cast and Crew: Professor - Michał Orzyłowski Student - Maria Pilch Maid - Alicja Kurowska Direction - Michał Szafarski Set Design - Sabina Kopińska Choreography - Alicja Kurowska, Michał Orzyłowski Photography - Małgorzata Fatalska