By Luisa Terzulli
We often talk about promoting Italy to foreigners, but have we ever thought to promote Italian art, culture and language to the Italians themselves living abroad? Escape in Art have, and by means of many activities such as theatre shows and literary competitions contribute to the affirming of a sound Italian identity in London. Non-profit association founded in 1998 by a group of friends with the trademark of culture and entertainment, Escape in Art staged – last 26th April in the theatre of the London Oratory School – two sole-acts in Italian language, directed and interpreted by amateur players full of good will to measure themselves, devolving the whole profit to charity. Both set in the Führer’s Nazi German, The Spy is an episode of Fear and Misery in the Third Reich by Bertolt Brecht adapted for Escape in Art by David Morante, while integrally by the latter is L’Ascensore [The Elevator – Author’s note], the second sole-act of the evening.
Perhaps facing Bertolt Brecht, with his subtle irony and sarcasm, is a too difficult undertaking for amateurs, and despite the remarkable care the interpretation lacks somehow in rhythm. More experience, instead, for the players of L’Ascensore, who succeed in giving the characters some depth and a streak of irony to a fundamentally as dramatic as true story.
Escape in Art have the merit of acting as a point of contact for many Italians and vehicle of creative outlet, in complete spontaneity and without any pretensions, as well as being actively committed to charity activities. The only criticism, despite the laudable charity commitment, is the price of the ticket: £12.00 is really too much for a play by – though very keen – amateurs at the oratory.
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