The Metamorphosis @ Joyce-Mind Altering

The Metamorphosis, a Royal Ballet Production made its New York premier @ the Joyce Theatre. Based on Kafka's nightmarish novella of the same name, The Royal Ballet created a mesmerizing dance/theatric production.  Kafka's novella is considered 1 of the seminal fictional works of the 20thC.  The story described the nightmarish morphing of a working, family man into a hideous insect.  A literal interpretation is horrific.  As a metaphor for being stricken from a healthy human into someone fully dependent upon others for care is a pitiful & life altering tragedy.  The ingenious staging brings to life Kafka's haunting & distubing work. The production is both captivating & ghoulish.  Edward Watson performance as Gregor Samsa, the man turned insect is so remarkable as to leave one breathless.  Watson's transformation is a miraculous tour de force.  The creative choreography & direction mark a triumphant testament to the impact of powerful art.  The Metamorphosis can also be described as repellant & unsettling.  It is a work you may not choose to experience a 2nd time, but experience it, you must.