A timely double bill of political satires is coming to the Golden Goose Theatre next week. Charlie and Striptease were both written by award winning Polish playwright, Slawomir Mrozek during the Soviet era.
In Charlie, an optician treats an elderly gentleman (carrying a shotgun) and his grandson, who are seeking the mysterious Charlie. Who is Charlie? And why do they want to shoot him? The optician observes, “One can’t just shoot anybody on the street”. Apparently, in America today, though, you can!!
In Striptease – Two strangers find themselves unexpectedly in a strange room, dictated to by a mysterious “hand” which requires them to divest items of clothing.
Where: Golden Goose Theatre
When: 21 Apr – 9 May, 7.30pm
Ticket link: https://www.goldengoosetheatre.co.uk/whatson/charlie-and-striptease
Actor Rowland D Hill on Striptease:
“I was thrilled to be invited to perform in a try-out of Striptease for the Birmingham Theatre Festival in summer 2025. I had not previously been aware of the work of playwright Slawomir Mrożek, and as soon as I read the play I wanted to play the character of Mr. 1.
The play is tightly written, the characters are intriguing to explore as an actor, and also for audiences, and the piece tickles and provokes. It is timely and relevant to be presenting this exceptional short play in today’s political climate. I look forward to taking the role again.”
The producers, DRH Arts and Orsolya Nagy, add:
“We were looking for a second short play to include as part of a double-bill with Striptease, and read of number of other plays by Mrożek. Charlie stood out.
Not only does it have a whacky and engaging sense of comedy, but the themes complement Striptease, whilst giving the audience a different, entertaining and stimulating experience. As far as we know, Charlie has not previously been performed in the UK.”