Synopsis

A small, rundown town in Russia

Dima, a 19-year-old grappling with his future, and his friends Slavik and Lera, are similarly trapped in a cycle of poverty and hopelessness. Dima lives with his alcoholic father Kulyok in a decaying apartment block humorously nicknamed “Dead and Alive,” located adjacent to a neglected cemetery. The narrative unfolds with the arrival of Lera and her cousin Yul’ka, leading to a series of interactions that reveal the harsh realities and fleeting dreams of the characters. As they navigate their relationships and personal crises, the play paints a stark picture of life in post-Soviet Russia.

The play explores themes of disillusionment, poverty, youthful rebellion, and the search for identity. It employs a linear narrative filled with raw, realistic dialogue that captures the bleakness and occasional dark humour of the characters’ lives. The tone is gritty and melancholic, with moments of levity that highlight the characters’ resilience and humanity. Sigarev’s writing style is evocative and unflinching, providing a powerful commentary on the socio-economic struggles of contemporary Russia.