Chocolates for the Chairman
Teatr Polski im. Arnolda Szyfmana w Warszawie, Warsaw
Who among us does not know the Chairman? People talk about the Chairman, quote him, watch and eavesdrop on him, report to the Chairman, revere him – openly and in secret, flatter him and seek his benevolent gaze. The Chairman leaves his mark on everything and everyone. And no one is able to oppose him. Because the Chairman is the Chairman and he is always right…
Sławomir Mrożek in his cycle of short stories "Chocolates for the Chairman" described the adventures of members of the "Bright Future" Cooperative, of course with the Chairman at the helm. From colourful, glittering stories infused with Mrożek's abstract humour, a universal tale emerged – a constantly relevant metaphor for the weakness of the world's condition, or perhaps simply the weakness of mankind.
Watching the adventures of five characters entangled in everyday life and oblivious to the hopelessness of their situation, it is worth remembering – who are we laughing at?