In 1950s London, Mr. Pym, a shy middle-aged academic, rents a room from divorcee Mrs. Fields. Alone upstairs, Mr. Pym dreams of the perfect woman: young, beautiful, and exotic. Downstairs on the sofa, a book and a glass of sherry her only companions, Mrs. Fields longs for warmth and human contact. As their lives begin to intersect, the two learn that they share an interest in Tolstoy, a common affection for Africa, and a lonely existence. Eventually desire overcomes their inhibitions, and the couple must deal with the painful-and sometimes painfully funny-consequences of intimacy. Graceful, tender, and erotic, The Walls of Africa is an exploration of loneliness and emotional connection by one of Canada’s most innovative and original playwrights.
About the Author
Hrant Alianak made his debut as a writer in 1972 at Theatre Passe Muraille in Toronto with his play Tantrums. Other plays he has written and directed include Night, Passion, Sin, and Lucky Strike, as well as The Blues, The Big Hit and The Walls of Africa. Lucky Strike has been performed to rave reviews in such cities as New York, Washington, Liverpool, London and Tel Aviv. The Blues has been performed across Canada and has been hailed as a “brilliantly imaginative comedy.” The Walls of Africa was nominated for eight Dora Awards and received three, including Best Production. Hrant also wrote, directed, and co-produced two feature films, A Trip to the Island and Burning, Burning. He also works as an actor. Hrant lives in Toronto.
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