Humanity and humour at the heart of euthanasia play
IN 2010 English writer and director Chris Larner accompanied his ex-wife Allyson to Dignitas in Switzerland.
He returned with an empty wheelchair and a story to tell, and on Wednesday he brings his one man show ‘An Instinct for Kindness to The Hawk’s Well Theatre.
Speaking to The Sligo Champion ahead of his show’s Sligo debut, the multifaceted actor explains that though the show deals with the taboo subject of euthanasia there is humour at the heart of it.
“It was an extraordinary story that I felt was burning a hole in my heart,” explained Mr Larner.
“It’s a very human story, it’s about me and Alyyson. It touches on the themes of assisted suicide and so obviously it is a heart-rending watch, but at the centre of it there is a positive story about a very brave woman who decided to take back control of her own life.”
Asked if writing the play helped in the grieving process, Chris admits it was hard, but in some ways it was ‘cathartic’.
And what has the feedback been like from audiences?
First performed in 2011 at the Edinburgh Festival, the heart-breaking and surprisingly funny play has garnered great praise.
“People find it very moving , they feel like they’ve met Alyy- son, I’ve had a lot of feedback from people who are considering Dignitas, but people are surprised it’s so funny.”
For people who are apprehensive about going to a play about such a difficult subject, Chris said, “It does deal with the topic, but in a way that is full of humanity and humour”.
He added, “You’ ll get to meet an extraordinary woman who made an extraordinary decision.”
Wednesday’s performance will be followed by a chat in the foyer with Chris.