Dostoevsky's Gambler: A Dizzying Theatrical Ride

The Coronet Theatre in London is currently hosting a striking adaptation of Dostoevsky's "The Gambler" by the Japanese company Chiten Theatre. This production boldly departs from naturalism, embracing rhythmic dialogue and highly stylized movements to convey the story's intensity.

The 90-minute performance, delivered in Japanese with subtitles, immerses the audience in the frenetic world of Alexei Ivanovich, a man consumed by gambling debts and romantic entanglements. The set design features a prominent roulette wheel that spins continuously, powered by the protagonist's desperate efforts, effectively illustrating the relentless nature of addiction.

Director Motoi Miura's approach emphasizes the characters' financial precarity through their movements and speech. Despite the serious themes, moments of humor emerge, notably from Satoko Abe's portrayal of the Grandmother. The dynamic seven-strong cast, led by Takahide Akimoto as the obsessive Alexei, delivers ferocious monologues that explore the dangerous depths of his obsessions.

This adaptation is for audiences seeking an immersive, visceral experience rather than traditional character-driven drama. The cast often addresses the audience directly, recounting the plot to emphasize the overwhelming pace and panic of addiction.