The Overcoat: A Musical
Three talented siblings have made the leap from their family business at the Fish Market to the Belvoir stage with their musical interpretation of The Overcoat, a short story by 19th century Russian writer Nikolai Gogol.
“Working at the markets, we were exposed to an environment full of natural performers and storytellers,” Constantine Costi says mischievously.
Rosemarie Costi adds, “As children, we all became obsessed with putting on and being in our own shows, but it wasn’t until later that we found what our different areas of focus would be.”
They all studied, with Michael Costi getting a law degree from UTS before completing the NIDA Playwriting Masters course.
Constantine graduated from the NIDA Directing Course before working for companies like Opera Australia and the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra, and Rosemarie studied a Bachelor of Music majoring in voice performance and jazz.
Constantine is a fan of Russian literature.
“There is something so inherently theatrical about the 19th century Russian writers. In Gogol, there is a sense of the surreal that masks great tragedy in characters who face incredible odds in their everyday struggles.”
Michael says, “Our adaptation plays with musicality in dark and light ways that are surprising and reflect both the comedy and hopelessness of Nikolai’s quest to buy a new coat.”
Rosemarie says Gogol’s story has musical qualities.
“The way Gogol suddenly changes direction in his storytelling is similar to freeform jazz. The words have a frenetic pace and are so beautifully detailed you can almost hear the sounds of the chaotic streets of Saint Petersburg.”
Until Dec 1. Belvoir Downstairs Theatre, 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills. $20-$25+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.belvoir.com.au
By Irina Dunn.
