Little Black Book at the Park Theatre
Unaware that he has left his door slightly ajar, Jean-Jacques prepares for work while musing over his latest conquest, his 134th woman – details of which can be found in his little black book. Suddenly in walks Suzanne, a mysterious blonde on the search for a Monsieur Ferrand. Little does he know, Jean-Jacques’ world is about to be turned upside down as Suzanne decides to make herself at home.
Little Black Book is a typically French play by Academy Award-winning screenwriter and director Jean-Claude Carrière. The story is set in a little apartment in Paris, focusing on the development of a relationship between Jean-Jacques and Suzanne. The dialogue is abstract and completely unrestrained as the audience bears witness to the tugs and throws of their turbulent romance. Carrière brings together, in a narrative that runs through a couple of days, the accumulation of ups and downs, imperfections and fears, lies and deceit that we all experience in love.
Actions are purely random; in the beginning Jean-Jacques cannot stand Suzanne and wants her out of his apartment, but by the end he cannot imagine life with her. Suzanne also reveals her shifting nature – at times she makes herself out to be the whore or the girl seeking her prince charming and very occasionally the innocent virgin. At first the sporadic nature of the script may seem somewhat confusing, though when is everyday life ever a flowing narrative with a clear beginning and an end?
Little Black Book is as intimate, sporadic and playful as any relationship, revealing the many faces of blind passion. It reflects the intricate nature of man and woman and the complexities of our differences and similarities, whether together or apart.
Do we ever really know each other?
Nastassja Smart
Little Black Book is at the Park Theatre until 19th January 2014. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.
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