I, THE VICTIM

HZT and SKICA Berlin are proud to announce the performance of I, the Victim by award-winning Slovenian playwright, dramaturge, author and performer Simona Semenič. Semenič is one of the leading figures in contemporary Slovenian and wider ex-Yugoslavian theatre and performance. Her oeuvre, beginning with innovative performative writing, is based on her uncompromising feminist and critical political approach. Simona Semenič's performance I, the Victim is a profound portrayal of someone whose life has tested her in more ways than one, leading to a twisted fascination and longing for dangerous living conditions.

The anatomy of a victim's mind is on full display in the play at hand and offers a self-deprecating and witty analysis of a soul and body that not only endure tragedy but in their own twisted way, also crave it. As every ounce of humility is shed, we not only sympathize with the given story, but find ourselves reflecting upon our own hardships – how they shaped us, influenced our development, and scarred us irreparably and forever. From bedwetting to debilitating illnesses, the source material deals with the raw complexities of life, growing up, and overcoming crippling odds. By portraying realistic issues, it deals with the nature of “the victim”, how it functions, and how it constantly needs an injection of the mishap to nourish itself – all of which leaves us with a surreal realization – we are nothing without the tragedy that we’ve endured.

The performance will be followed by the artist talk moderated by Janez Janša.

HZT Berlin in collaboration with Slowenisches Kulturinformationszentrum SKICA Berlin.