A new theater season has begun, and we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to watch the play Kovács Sándor, based on Mihail Ugarov’s work, last night. I can honestly say it was yet another soul-nourishing experience. The play, set in a not-too-distant future, focuses on the trials and agonies of modern humans as they grapple with loneliness and the pursuit of completeness. Anxiety over life’s challenges, the acceptance of love, and the fear of loss have become some of the most “contagious” mental states of our time. Kovács Sándor, who is not just a man but rather a kovácssándor, tries to escape from this condition, seeking completeness within his closed-off world. But both his world and he are sick. Is there a cure? If a half is whole, why is the whole still half? These are questions the play raises, questions that continue to swirl in my mind, and perhaps only our whole lives can answer them. Directed by guest director Zoltán Rajkai, this is, for me, yet another masterpiece. The unforgettable performances by Csaba Fándly and Sára Mészáros were exceptional, and alongside them, István Stefánszky and Csenge Kaszás soared. On behalf of our little group, I am deeply thankful to have been part of this experience, which draws upon the rich tradition of classic Russian literature.
– Andrea Nagy, parent
The sad and lovable, but never pitiful story of the little person inside each of us was told in a deeply affecting performance last night. We’ve seen several plays together that have turned our minds and souls upside down, but perhaps this play delivered the greatest emotional blow, reaching somewhere deep inside. It was shocking, touching, full of laughter and tears, and thought-provoking. How wonderful it is to witness something like this! I experienced flawless acting, and I am grateful to the creators and our sponsor for this opportunity.
– Levente Sipos
Kovács Sándor can indeed be seen as a comedy: self-irony, awkward situations, and the bitter, ironic twists of fate all played important roles in the performance. This futuristic play touched on the (drastic) balance between body and soul, anxiety, migrating swallows, wholeness, attraction, and many other moving themes. I would recommend Kovács Sándor to all age groups—everyone will find something to think about and take home. And if anyone wears mascara or eyeliner to the performance, I recommend choosing waterproof, so they don’t end up like I did.
– Sarolta Kovács-Nagy
