Divine Madness

About the show:

A ritual performance where live music intertwines with theatrical storytelling, guiding you through the depths of madness and the Divine Feminine. After years of battling panic attacks, Başak consults a modern witch in Istanbul and uncovers that her anxiety is rooted in her family’s past. She learns that her grandmother, labelled ‘crazy’ and who ended her own life, has been haunting her. To rid herself of this presence and avoid a similar fate, Başak embarks on a journey into the mysteries where she asks for the help of Lilith. With the audience’s help, Başak will delve into the depths of madness and seek light within the darkness, navigating the fine line between reality and fantasy while grappling with the haunting question: ‘Am I the one who is mad, or is it the Divine?’

Bio:

Born and raised in Istanbul, Başak Layiç is a versatile theatermaker, storyteller, Artistic Director, and Community Builder. She moved to the Netherlands in 2019, becoming a storyteller at Mezrab and writing her first play, “The Millennial Immigrant,” for the Amsterdam Fringe Festival. Since then, she has worked in more than 30 productions across the Netherlands.

Başak’s works delve into profound philosophical questions blended with comedy and a certain musicality, ensuring her narratives stick in your mind like a catchy tune you can’t stop humming – only less annoying. Currently, she is exploring innovative ways to integrate music and spoken word, believing that the fusion of these elements can create a more immersive and emotionally resonant experience for audiences. This exploration will culminate in her upcoming solo performance, “Divine Madness,” which aims to harmonize storytelling with musical rhythms and melodies, enhancing the depth and impact of her narratives.

Credits:

Writer and actress: Başak Layiç

Musician: Emin Gök & Başak Layiç

Director: Zephyr Brüggen

Dramaturg: Mara van Nes

Fundraiser: Philippos Moschatos