As Gregor Samsa awoke one morning from uneasy dreams he found himself transformed in his bed into a monstrous insect.

Gregor’s life is full of contradictions, confusion and reasons to feel inadequate. He works hard in a job which he dislikes in a society which he does not understand, but which allows him to provide for his family. When he begins to suffer from an unusual health complaint which threatens to jeopardise his ability to function he finds that those around him are unable to offer any help or advice. Following his shocking metamorphosis into a giant insect he begins to realise what it is that makes him human. But is it too late? As his mind adapts to his new life Gregor grows ever more distant from the world, struggling to retain his humanity.

Kafka’s Prague in 1915 was full of confusing bureaucracy, indecipherable rules and regulations and a host of reasons why Gregor should grow to consider himself utterly worthless. The busy, successful and popular inhabitants of this world serve only to show Gregor just how far removed he is from their status.

Today, our world is not so different. Our government and social structures have never been more complex, confusing, and… well, Kafkaesque. The world bustles along with little time or energy to notice those around us who may be struggling, and social media bombards us with images of perfect people with perfect lives, completely unattainable for most of us. 

Franz Kafka‘s story of a misfit trying to adapt to his busy world is as relevant now as it ever was. This new adaptation by Mild Peril Theatre of a classic tale of alienation explores the many aspects of modern life which conspire to isolate us from each other, and what it is about being human which brings us closer together.

IMPORTANT INFO: Unfortunately, due to manufacturing delays beyond our control, our new seating isn’t anticipated to arrive until March. This means that temporary unallocated seating will be in place for this show. Thank you for your continued patience and support during this time. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us on boxoffice@pocklingtonartscentre.co.uk