The director’s intention
I wanted to introduce Galati to the idea of sex education. Although I expected it would be challenging, Peony turned out to be a gentle comedy on the forbidden topic of where we explore around sexuality and sex. I think this performance would be an excellent chance to talk about important topics if the audience came with the intention of understanding a bit more than we already know. It is not a show that casts blame or engages in arguments with viewers. I wasn’t planning on doing that, in any case.
Synopsis
During a parent-teacher meeting, professor Peony suggests that the fourth-grade curriculum incorporate optional sex education. This is a chance to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of sex education in schools while also honoring the early sex education teachings of previous generations.
The Team
Text: Doru Vatavului
Director: Leta Popescu
Stage design: Bogdan Spătaru
Music: Oana Hodade
Assistant director: Lavinia Eiler
With: Vlad Volf, Ștefan Forir, Ciprian Brașoveanu, Vlad Ajder, Elena Ghinea, Petronela Buda, Flavia Călin, Maria Niță
Photo credit: Ovidiu Iordachi
Festivals
“Cătălina Buzoianu” Directing Festival, Iași, 2024;
National Theatre Festival, Bucharest, 2024.
Prizes
Best Directing Award – Leta Popescu for the show “Peony”, at the “Cătălina Buzoianu” Directing Festival, 2024;
Best Actor Award – Vlad Volf for the role of “Peony”, The Teacher, at the “Cătălina Buzoianu” Directing Festival, 2024.