The Revival of a 30-Year-Old Script
After more than three decades, Elísabet Jökulsdóttir’s script, “Mundu Töfrana” (Remember the Magic), is finally making its debut on stage, thanks to the innovative theatre group Kriðpleir. Initially penned in 1992, the play explores the journey of Ella and her brother, the Clown, as they search for the Child to offer tears, enabling the Child to grieve his father and continue his own journey in life.
Despite Elísabet’s persistent efforts and numerous rewrites, the script had not seen the spotlight until now. The play was regarded as a forgotten piece of Icelandic theatre, often described as an “elbow child” due to its neglected status.
A Family Affair: Collaboration and Kinship
Elísabet Jökulsdóttir and her cousin, Ragnar Ísleifur Bragason, a director and performer with Kriðpleir, recently shared insights into their collaboration on Icelandic radio show, “Segðu mér” on Rás 1. The two cousins have a close relationship, with Ragnar expressing admiration for Elísabet and her work. “She is my favorite aunt, and I am impressed by how highly she regards me. Producing her play is definitely in my top ten achievements,” Ragnar commented.
Elísabet recounted a spiritual encounter with her father, the late playwright Jökull Jakobsson, who inspired her to write the play. “He appeared in the hallway, and I’ve called it the ‘ghost hallway’ since then,” she joked. After overcoming personal struggles and substance abuse, she was motivated to write about the beauty in the world, guided by her father’s posthumous encouragement: “You must write a play.”
The Theatrical Journey of “Mundu Töfrana”
Kriðpleir, known for its avant-garde and creative approach, has embraced Elísabet’s work with respect and sincerity. Ragnar explained that the company aimed to present the play as a “children’s theatre for adults,” a vision that Elísabet endorsed after attending a rehearsal. “She generously allowed us to delve into her writing, and as her cousin, I sense genuine connections within the play,” Ragnar noted.
The first part of the performance features Kriðpleir members Árni Vilhjálmsson, Friðgeir Einarsson, Ragnheiður Maísól Sturludóttir, and Sigrún Hlín Sigurðardóttir, alongside Ragnar and Saga Garðarsdóttir. They portray themselves attempting to stage the play, highlighting humorous and exaggerated relationship dynamics. Although these portrayals reflect fictional tensions, Ragnar assures that the real-life relationships are harmonious.
An Emotional Return to the Stage
In the second half of the performance, audiences witness the realization of Elísabet’s script. “We make a sincere effort to stage Elísabet’s play ‘Mundu Töfrana,'” Ragnar stated. Elísabet expressed profound joy at seeing her work come to life: “After 32 years, it’s indescribable to see it in front of me, fulfilling what I intended.”
Ragnar, equally thrilled, emphasized the importance of this production in honoring his cousin’s perseverance. “One of the primary goals of this staging is to complete this journey for Elísabet. She has been incredibly supportive, and now it’s my turn to reciprocate,” he mentioned.
Perseverance and Support in Icelandic Theatre
Over the years, Elísabet tirelessly presented her play to various Icelandic theatres, including the National Theatre, City Theatre, and the Akureyri Theatre Company. Despite being translated and adapted multiple times, it had never been fully staged until now. “I’m proud of myself for not giving up,” she remarked, crediting Ragnar for his unwavering support. “Having someone believe in you makes all the difference.”
Ragnar echoed her sentiments, underscoring the value of mutual support in artistic endeavors. “I help her, and she helps me. Perhaps if there was more of this kind of support, things would proceed more smoothly.”