Leni’s Last Lament
Fresh from its critically acclaimed run at the Edinburgh Fringe, Leni’s Last Lament arrives at Paradise Factory Theater for a limited engagement this spring. This darkly satirical solo play, penned by Gil Kofman, offers a provocative, but also humorous, exploration of history, ambition, and the human capacity for self-deception.
“The brilliance — and also the tragedy — of Leni’s Last Lament is that Leni herself makes us the victim of the same fascist trap that originally ensnared her.”
— EdFringe Review
In a surreal, cabaret-style setting, Obie Award-winning actress Jodie Markell embodies Leni Riefenstahl, the infamous filmmaker whose work for the Nazi regime left an indelible mark on cinematic history.
Set in an ethereal editing room, Riefenstahl attempts to re-edit her controversial past, striving to present herself as a misunderstood artist rather than a propagandist. Directed by Richard Caliban, lauded as a “legendary downtown theater-maker” by the Village Voice, the production weaves together elements of theater, music, and multimedia. Live accordion and violin performances by Spiff Wiegand enhance the immersive experience, while innovative projection and lighting design by Joey Moro, along with puppet design by Lake Simmons, contribute to the play’s haunting atmosphere.
“Soars with a timely relevance! A stellar performance by Jodie Markell. Fresh and atmospheric staging from director Richard Caliban”— Culture Fix
Leni’s Last Lament delves into the complexities of artistic responsibility and extenuating moral ambiguity. As Riefenstahl reconstructs her narrative, the audience is compelled, as well as seduced, to confront uncomfortable questions about complicity, denial, and the rewriting of history. Kofman’s script challenges viewers to consider the extent to which individuals will go to absolve themselves and the consequences of allowing such narratives to persist unchallenged.
★★★★
“A Triumph! Kofman’s script, Markell’s charisma and Caliban’s atmospheric and inventive production add up to a smart, funny, and chilling experience.”
“The show is at once bawdy and intellectual. Packed with song and cabaret elements.”— Beyond the Curtain
Performances run from May 29 through June 14 at Paradise Factory Theater, located at 64 East 4th Street, New York, NY 10003.
Special post-show discussions will be held on select dates:
- June 1: Featuring Liesl Schillinger, professor and writer for publications including The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The Washington Post.
- June 12: Featuring Lawrence Weschler, veteran New Yorker staff writer and director emeritus of the NY Institute for the Humanities.
- June 14: Closing night party.