Kralj na Betajnova, a socially critical drama about the complete collapse of ethics and justice, first comes to SNG Drama Ljubljana, then to SNG Drama Maribor.
King on Betajnova by Ivan Cankar, a 1901 social-critical drama about the complete breakdown of ethics and justice, foregrounds fundamental character categories that are alive and well today. Cankar's work, which is relevant at all times for performances, is now being directed Eduard Miller first to Drama in Ljubljana, then at the end of February he moves to SNG Maribor. At the center of the drama is Jožef Kantor - a manufacturer, mogul and candidate for parliament, as well as a connoisseur, egocentric, manipulator, bully, ruler and materialist, who achieves his goals through bribery, dirty lobbying and intrigue. When the latter is not enough, Kantor's way of achieving his goal (power and wealth) also becomes murder. Kantor is motivated and has clear goals, and the individuals around him want to be in his company because of the money. And although Kantor's crimes are well known to everyone, no one talks about them, no one dares to point a finger at him, because he inspires respect and fear. "And in fact, because of his sincere and gentle servant spirit, Betajnov deserves nothing better. Jožef Kantor is the one who will lead or kill Betajnova, and this high mission is entrusted to him by the entire Betajnova - from the pastor to the last worker.
There is no room for rebels in this country, no room for different, free, progressive thinkers. There is only room for servants here," they wrote in the presentation of the premiere, in which Jože Kantor plays the lead role. Jernej Šugman.
