Pardubice’s Východočeské divadlo is currently staging “Frederick,” a new production directed by Radovan Lipus, a play that explores the life of 19th-century French actor Frédéric Lemaître. The production, which premiered in February, features Ladislav Špiner in the titular role and is already garnering attention for its exploration of theatricality and the complexities of love, and performance. Lipus, in his fourth collaboration with the Pardubice ensemble, has chosen a function that he feels resonates with a fading appreciation for French arts and culture.
The play, written by Éric-Emmanuel Schmitt, centers on Lemaître, a celebrated figure in French Romanticism known for transforming lackluster melodramas into popular successes through his innovative and often comedic approach. “Frederick” delves into the actor’s life, portraying him as an extravagant bohemian, a gambler, and a revolutionary, while also examining his struggle to reconcile his passionate life with the demands of genuine affection. The story unfolds primarily in 1832, at the peak of Lemaître’s career, interwoven with flashbacks to his childhood and glimpses into his future.
Špiner leads a cast that includes Petra Janečková, Veronika Malá, Petr Dohnal, Petr Borovec, Alexandr Postler, and Tomáš Lněnička, bringing to life a vibrant theatrical world. The production promises a traditional theatrical experience, eschewing modern elements like videoprojections, according to Lipus. Pavel Helebrand composed the music for the play, and Marta Roszkopfová designed the sets and costumes.
A Play Originally Intended for Belmondo
Schmitt originally penned the role of Frederick with Jean-Paul Belmondo in mind. However, the play’s Czech premiere in 2004 at Prague’s Divadlo ABC featured Boris Rösner in the lead role. Tragically, Rösner passed away two years later, and, as dramaturg Jana Pithartová noted, “Frederick” hadn’t been staged in the Czech Republic since. This new production at Východočeské divadlo marks a revival of Schmitt’s work for Czech audiences.
Lipus expressed a personal connection to the play, stating, “I personally regret that French culture, literature, and plays are fading from our space. I am a Francophile.” He described the production as a “period piece, an analog theater,” emphasizing its commitment to traditional theatrical techniques. The director’s choice reflects a desire to highlight the enduring power of classic storytelling and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
The play’s narrative explores Lemaître’s life, from his early success in revitalizing stale productions to his eventual confrontation with the challenges of true love. His famous quote, “Life has meaning for me only when I play it,” encapsulates the central theme of the play – the blurring lines between reality and performance.
Upcoming Performances and Critical Reception
Following its February premiere, “Frederick” will have additional performances on March 11th and April 4th at Východočeské divadlo Pardubice. Early reviews, such as one from Divadelní noviny, describe the production as a “polished tribute to the theater” and praise Špiner’s performance. The review highlights the play’s strong story, well-defined characters, and effective dialogue.
The production’s focus on a historical figure and its exploration of the actor’s profession offer a unique perspective on the world of theater. Lemaître’s story, rooted in 19th-century Paris, resonates with themes of artistic expression, personal fulfillment, and the complexities of human relationships. The play’s revival in Pardubice provides a fresh opportunity for audiences to engage with Schmitt’s work and reflect on the enduring power of the stage.
As Východočeské divadlo continues its run of “Frederick,” it serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating both Czech and international theatrical traditions. The production’s success will likely spark further discussion about the role of French culture in the Czech Republic and the enduring appeal of classic dramatic works.
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