In 2000 Danish author Janne Teller released Nothing, a haunting and provocative fiction novel that explores themes of existential nihilism, sacrifice, revenge and death. It was banned for a time in a few European countries, before being awarded the Best Book Prize by the Danish Ministry for Culture, the prestigious Le Prix Libbylit and the American Michael L. Printz Honour Award. And now, it has been adapted for the stage by playwright Pelle Koppel.
Nothing opens at Riverside Theatres on September 1 for an exclusive seven-show run. Directed by Erin Taylor and starring outstanding new talents Joseph Raboy and Alyona Popova, it tells the story of Pierre-Anthon, a teenager who decides that life has no meaning. Determined to prove him wrong, his classmates start to give up items of importance – like treasures and sentimental objects – and pile them in a sacrificial ‘heap of meaning’.
What unfolds is nothing short of horrific, with the gang of feverish youths escalating this quest for the meaning of life into a cruel and brutal game where no one is exempt and nothing is off limits. It is a dark, complex and thought-provoking adventure through the horrors of youth and into the bleak realities of adulthood, and it will stay with you long after the theatre lights have turned back on.
Nothing is recommended for ages 15 and above. For more information and to book your tickets, head to the website.