The Stranger

Renowned as one of the great character studies in modern literature, The Stranger is Nobel Prize winner Albert Camus’ masterpiece. One of Canberra’s most celebrated actors, Christopher Samuel Carroll, delivers a performance of searing intensity in this solo adaptation of a modern classic.

It lays before us a seemingly ordinary man, who is extraordinary in his honesty: a philosophical riddle, who, in Camus’ words,
“refuses to lie. He says what he is, he refuses to hide his feelings and society immediately feels threatened.”

In this nuanced production audiences are challenged to test the boundaries of their own morality – to relate to this stranger, or cast their judgement upon him.

From the infamous opening line, “Maman died today”, the character of Meursault states his case with unflinching directness, confronting his listeners with a story of alienation, chance and life-shattering choices, that leaves us no shadow in which to hide.

Based on L’étranger by Albert Camus, © Editions Gallimard.

Presented by Bare Witness Theatre Co. and supported by Ainslie and Gorman Arts Centres.