Z O O M - I N
Views of the Gods: Theatre Photography
As a fan of Alan Rickman and a part-time photographer, I am fascinated by Ivan Kyncl's British theatre photography. I went to the Victoria and Albert Museum and had a look at Kyncl: In the Minute, an exhibition celebrating the atmospheric work of the Czech-born theatre photographer. This exhibition is in London until 7 July, so I would like to recommend it to every theatre and photography enthusiast.
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photo by Alice Cheung
After arriving in the UK as a political refugee in 1980, Ivan Kyncl’s (1953-2004) career saw him photograph over 500 plays, operas and musicals. This display celebrates Kyncl’s ability to capture the very essence, atmosphere and emotion of a theatrical production through his unique “in the minute” approach.
Alan Rickman in Tango at the End of Winter, 1991, Piccadilly Theatre, London © Ivan Kyncl. V&A, London Photograph: Ivan Kyncl
Betrayal, 1991
Venue: Almeida Theatre, London
Director: David Leveaux
Playwright: Harold Pinter
Scene: I guess this photo shows Emma and Jerry talking about their life at their new flat
Redundant, 2001
Venue: Royal Court Theatre, London
Director: Dominic Cooke
Playwright: Leo Butler
Plenty, 1999
Cate Blanchett in David Hare’s play, directed for the Almeida by Jonathan Kent and designed by Maria Bjornson, at the Albery theatre, London
Cleansed, 1998
Sarah Kane’s play, directed by James Macdonald and starring Suzan Sylvester, at the Royal Court, London
The Birthday Party, 2002
Harold Pinter’s play, directed by Erica Whyman at Crucible theatre, Sheffield
Design by Soutra Gilmour
