Landru
(This production will be performed in Dutch)
Affluent single man (46 years old) seeks charming lady to accompany him during a sumptuous dinner, an evening at the theater, or a trip to the countryside.
Henri-Désiré Landru may appear to be a respectable gentleman, but appearances can be deceiving. This middle-class man, husband, and father of four has an extraordinary allure for women. Over the course of four years (1915-1919), the charming Landru lures as many as 283 ladies, mostly widows who lost their husbands in the Great War. He promises them the world, but in the end, they disappear into his oven. Except for piles of clothes and some ashes, nothing remains of his victims. The only witness to these gruesome acts is Landru himself. During the trial, Landru reveals himself as a master manipulator of the court, jury, and audience. The cunning murderer skillfully refutes every accusation in a comical and ingenious manner.
"This is not a theater hall, Monsieur Landru!"
Jan Decleir masterfully embodies the serial killer Landru. The theatrical script of "Het Banket" and the music by Frederik Neyrinck bring to life the horror story of this creepy entertainer. The brass quartet of I SOLISTI takes you on a journey through this unbelievable, true story. Two sopranos from the Flemish Radio Choir oversee the whole performance and portray the voices of the murdered women.
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Concept: Het Banket i.s.m. Francis Pollet
Composition: Frederik Neyrinck
Ensemble: I SOLISTI i.s.m. Vlaams Radiokoor
Klarinet: Tomonori Takeda
Fagot: Francis Pollet
Trompet: Simon Van Hoecke
Trombone: Bram Fournier / Joren Elsen
Sopraan: Kelly Poukens en Jolien De Gendt
Actor: Jan Decleir
Text and direction: Tristan Versteven en Brechtje Louwaard
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Landru is a production of Het Banket, I SOLISTI, and the Flemish Radio Choir, with thanks to Klara.