Review: THE TRIAL, The Pleasance Courtyard
Kafka’s masterpiece re-imagined for a modern world
![]()
The Young Pleasance celebrate their 25th anniversary with a large ensemble aged 16-21, performing a re-imagined version of Kafka's disorientating and unfinished novel, The Trial. Although written in 1914-15, the themes are just as relevant now, exploring injustice, morality, segregation, reputation and subservience.
The Young Pleasance's version of Josef K, is an International University student, being paid as the sole patient in a medical trial, for which he has broken the unknown and uncodified 'rules' and requirements. His acquaintances cannot be trusted, as they secretly observe him. A suitcase lingers, becomes representative of Josef's past.
The focus on the level of intrusion is disturbing and uncomfortable, forming a level of unease at the faceless authority, causing irreparable damage to a life. The choreography further contributes to this, presenting astute group movement pieces, including a floaty and mystical dream sequence. A torch scene is notable, due to being particularly visually pleasing, creating an eerie atmosphere.
The young cast present an interesting modern adaptation of The Trial, with a promising cast, destined for great things.
The Trial runs at The Pleasance Courtyard from 5-14 August 2022.
|
Antigone 1989: A Town Hall Musical Gilded Balloon Patter House (8/05-8/29) |
|
Elvis in Chaos Lime Studio at Greenside @ George Street (8/07-8/15) |
|
Sapphire McIntosh: Squeaky Bum Time Unerbelly Bristo Square - Daisy Room (8/05-8/30) |
|
Sitting (In Silence) Summerhall (8/06-8/31) |
|
Helen Bradley: Painter and Storyteller Pleasance Courtyard (Cellar) (8/05-8/30) |
|
They’re Just Small Town (Northern) Lads Summerhall (8/06-8/16) |
|
Man or Bear Summerhall (8/06-8/30) |
|
NewsRevue Pleasance Courtyard (8/05-8/31) |
|
Giraffe Pleasance Courtyard (Cellar) (8/05-8/31) |
|
Jerk Off! Underbelly (Dairy Room) (8/05-8/30) |










Reader Reviews
To post a comment, you must register and login.