Ein Theaterstück

Based on the medieval story of Abélard and Héloïse, »Duel« revolves around the eternal contrast of feminine and masculine. »Duel« is a battle between HIM and HER, and words are the weapons, words are the expression of pain and pleasure. The resulting minimalist play of both actors on the stage is a choreography for language. Every word, every movement, every gesture is carefully planned. This intensified breadth of acting crosses boundaries and creates a whole new dimension of fascinating theatrical art. »Duel« has been invited to a number of festivals at venues including Antwerp, London and Créteil.

Abélard and Héloïse – they are among the most famous lovers of the middle ages. Héloïse was born around 1100 in Paris and she grew up with her uncle Fulbert. She met the priest Abélard in 1117, fell pregnant by him and married him in secret. After the tragic end of their relationship, she moved to Argenteuil abbey in 1118, upon his wish. Abélard was born in Brittany in 1079. He grew to be one of the most famous Theology teachers of his time. His affair with Héloïse was ended in his castration by violent criminals hired by her uncle Fulbert. He died in 1142 in Cluny abbey. Today a memorial stone still reminds of the halcyon days of the couple in a house at the Ile de la Cité in Paris.

The Glej Theatre is one of the leading independent Slovenian theatre companies. Founded in 1970 in Ljubljana, it quickly became a starting point for a new generation of Slovenian – then Yugoslav – authors, directors and actors. Glej presents non-verbal physical expression as well as spoken theatre in a way which is completely unorthodox. The company has made guest appearances in numerous cities around Europe. Its venue is a former stable in the centre of Ljubljana. Diego de Brea, born in Nova Gorica in 1969, is one of Slovenia’s leading directors, having staged productions in the national theatres in Ljubljana, Nova Gorica and Maribor.