Båłkøń

Taking place in and around an elevated apartment, it’s balcony and the surrounding public space below…

Bäłkøñ is an interactive comic-drama. Seen through the experiences of three couples from different language and cultural backgrounds, it explores and reflects on the nature & impact of conflict and its reconciliation.

The couples occupying the neighbouring apartments find themselves embroiled in personal conflicts which result in separation. Each couple goes through a similar scenario of dispute, argument and eventual parting of ways. Different in each case is the way their various language and cultural mannerisms & traditions manifest and play out in the conflict.

Three find themselves on the street, evicted with their belongings. Facing rejection, isolation & uncertainty, they reflect on their predicament of being alone and at the mercy of the elements. Similarly, the other three find themselves abandoned and isolated in their broken homes surrounded by reminders of what they have relinquished and contemplating their own uncertain futures.

Each of the characters explores their new-found situation & possibilities, finding solace & solidarity in the unexpected associations formed with those around in the same predicament. With the support of each other and collaborating with the audience, the characters explore their new situations and devise ways to reconcile & re-unite with their partners and return to the security of their relationship & homes.

Bäłkøñ premiered as part of the 30th La Plage des Six Pompes festival in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland in 2023 and is ready for national and international touring.