Concept+Page

Acting concept

//Variations on the Death of Trotsky// is a comical play dealing with the murder of Russian communist Leon Trotsky. Though the play is fairly historically accurate, David Ives twists the storyline to add humor to the play. Trotsky's naivety of his situation and pending death are key to the lead role's interpretation of the play. His wife's dry humor is also vital to the play's laughable nature. The interaction between the couple is the main form of humor in the play and needs to be the primary target of the person in charge of casting the roles. If not done correctly, the play could be ruined. Ramon, Trotsky's gardener and eventual murderer, has minimal lines but is a characterization of the setting of the play. Trotsky retreated to Mexico when under attack and Ramon is representative of this decision. Overall, the actors do not have to do much to make this play work, but some intricate interactions are key to relaying humor to the audience the way Ives imagined it.