THE HOSPITAL

This was JSK’s first show with an all-female cast. Which came as a surprise to many due to the rather masculine image of the company. The choice brought fresh air and new inspiration. The show became a confirmation of the company philosophy on nonsensical languages and the allocation of a local aesthetic to each production. In short – the idea of traveling around the world with something Icelandic, both in theme and language, would have scared most people off before even trying. But after highly successful touring in 22 countries, and still being very much alive on the touring repertory, it is appropriate to suggest that the usual preconceptions about language barriers should be reconsidered.

The first long international tour was completed with a month-long run at the Sydney Opera House, with daytime leisure on fantastic beaches full of men in tiny swimsuits, before the final stop and final verdict – Reykjavik. Standing ovation from the victims of the mockery itself was another sign of the company being on the right artistic track. The company still thinks it should have gotten a medal of honour from the Icelandic Minister of Culture for their worldwide promotion of their culture. Considered also that Norway has been Iceland’s main enemy for 1000 years, the company effort is even more impressive. The company is still waiting for this recognition.