On April 30, NUKU premiers a new play Timm Thaler or the Traded Laughter, produced by Taavi Tõnisson.
The production is based on James Krüss’ loved novel, which is either mandatory or recommended literature in Estonian secondary schools. The show is for everyone aged 10 and above.
Producer Taavi Tõnisson believes the production fits in well with current circumstances. He says: “I feel that in our current society, where we live, we need constant reminding of what is really important. Timm sells his laughter and gives up part of himself”. According to Tõnisson, the whole production is based around the boy’s attempt to regain his laughter. “There are things we cannot manipulate with. There are human qualities that cannot be exchanged for money and should not be. It is a story about the conflict of power and spirit.”
The show’s main character Timm sells his laughter to a mysterious baron Taruk. In return, Timm acquires the power of never ending bet winning. Baron Taruk is played by Riho Rosberg, who is currently celebrating his 27th year in NUKU. Rosberg says that his representation of the baron has different dimensions: is he actually evil, has supernatural powers or does he point to the little devils inside all of us.
Krüss’ novel was adapted to a production by Urmas Lennuk. 1930s stage design and costumes were created by theatre artist Marion Undusk. The sound design of the play was composed by Aleksandr Źedeljov or Faershtein (Russian Theatre), who recently released a record. Lighting designer is Priidu Adlas (Vaba Lava) and video artist Kristjan Suits, movement and motion was instructed by Olga Privis.
The main character Timm is played by Mihkel Vendel, who joined NUKU just recently and is graduating from theatre school this Spring. In other roles: Mihkel Tikerpalu, Liivika Hanstin, Tiina Tõnis and Tarmo Männard (all from NUKU theatre). In addition, as guest actors, Ott Kartau and Risto Vaidla (Kuressaare City Theatre).
Timm Thaler or the Trader Laughter premiers on April 30 in the Ferdinand auditorium. The production will only be showcased during the first week of May and then return to the stage in October 2017.
Additional information:
Hannele Känd
NUKU theatre and museum communication manager
56698839, 6679509 / hannele.kand [at] nuku.ee
