Dramatist Alexander Zeldin expresses his inclination towards existing as an outcast

Alexander Zeldin, a British-born playwright and director based in Paris, has been selected as the Artist in Focus at Schaubühne's FIND festival this month. Known for his thought-provoking and emotionally resonant works, Zeldin's unique perspective and artistic vision are set to captivate audiences.

Zeldin draws inspiration from various sources, including the late Japanese theatremaker Yukio Ninagawa. His plays evoke a sense of wonder and resonance, imbued with a living presence that transcends the boundaries of the stage.

Zeldin's artistic journey has been marked by a shift in his writing style, moving from more political works like The Inequalities to more personal plays such as The Confessions. This change can be characterised as a move from overtly political themes to a focus on inner experiences and personal narratives.

The inspiration for The Confessions came from Zeldin's own life, taking shape from the story of his mother. This novelistic project is a poignant and intimate story about someone at the end of their life, offering a deeply moving exploration of life, death, and the human experience.

Zeldin begins his playwriting process by seeking freedom and a space where he can be creatively free. This approach allows him to delve into the depths of his inner experiences, resulting in works that resonate with audiences on a deeply personal level.

Traveling is important to Zeldin, helping him maintain a sense of transience that he believes is beneficial for artists. This nomadic spirit is reflected in his works, which often explore themes of displacement and the search for identity.

In addition to The Confessions, Zeldin's critically-acclaimed socio-realistic The Inequalities trilogy will continue with the staging of Faith, Hope and Charity at the Schaubühne on the 27th and 28th of April. Tickets for this powerful and thought-provoking performance can be purchased online.

Zeldin views theatre as a concentration of life, offering an intensity of feeling that is difficult to achieve outside of the theatre. For him, the theatre is a mystery, a constant question that artists should ask themselves every day. He believes that theatre can do things that are not possible in real life, such as helping people see the dead or natural forces of life. In the theatre, he finds a space where he can explore the human condition, delve into the depths of the human soul, and create works that resonate with audiences on a deeply emotional level.

Dramatist Alexander Zeldin expresses his inclination towards existing as an outcast