Much Better Now (2023)

f we were to wake up tomorrow transformed into an animal, many of us might imagine becoming majestic eagles or noble horses. However, the question is not what animal we would like to be, but rather what we would truly be. This reflection forces us to think about our true essence, character traits, and perhaps how others perceive us.

On Saturday, November 4th, 2023, at 20:00 in the foyer of the Archa Theatre, we will be greeted by a vernissage happening on November 10th, 2023. This event will introduce an installation that is a combination of textual, optical, and auditory elements, resulting from the solo performance of Sofía Vélez from Great Britain and collaboration with video artist Martin Krupa. The work, created under the banner of the Centre for Documentary Theatre at Stodolio 71 studio, serves as a metaphor for a space of encounter and the experience of social exclusion. The installation works on the theme of a future performance and, through a torn, layered, and unconventional style, comments on attitudes towards social classes and queerness.

The concept and realization of the installation are the work of Martin Krupa (CZ). Sofía Vélez (UK) brings the concept of the performance, the text, and performs. Dramaturgical supervision is handled by Jana Svobodová.

The AKCENT 2023 festival is realized with financial support from the Capital City of Prague, the Ministry of Culture, and the State Cultural Fund. This event represents a unique opportunity to engage with art that dares to explore deep social questions and challenges us to reflect on our own identity and place in society, just as the transformation into an animal forces us to ponder our true nature.