Three verses of solitude

Three Verses of Solitude is an immersive performance piece that explores solitude as both a personal refuge and a collective condition, especially in the aftermath of war. Drawing inspiration from the contemplative stillness of the Rothko Chapel, in Houston, Texas the work is a quiet call for mourning, reflection, and reconnection. 

It traces the emotional spectrum from solitude to loneliness, where peace gives way to aching, and isolation meets the longing for connection. Through this lens, the work invites viewers to reflect on their own relationship with solitude, while participating in a collective effort to find solace in our shared humanity and the beauty found in quiet moments. It asks: In the wake of loss, how can we be alone, together? 

The piece gestures toward solitude not only as absence, but as a possibility, a creative practice touching upon boldness and joy. In stillness, new worlds can be imagined. In silence, something vibrant can begin. 

This is a first studio showing in Europe of a piece that should have premiered in Beirut in November 2024. After the showing, the audience will be invited to reflect upon the work together with the makers. 

Maya Zbib, Lee Serle, and Ben Frost first met in 2010 as fellows of the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative. Maya Zbib is a Lebanese theatre director, performer, writer, and trainer. She is the co-founder and co-artistic director of Zoukak Theatre (2006) in Beirut and Sidewalks Festival (2013). Lee Serle is an Australian choreographer and dancer known for his innovative solo and ensemble work across Australia, New York, and Europe. Ben Frost is an Australian composer and producer, based in Reykjavík, Iceland. Frost composes minimalist, instrumental and experimental music, with influences ranging from classical minimalism to punk rock and black metal. Zoukak was established in 2006 as a horizontal theatre collective committed to artistic practice as a form of social and political engagement. 

Zoukak Collective have won numerous awards over the years, including the Ibsen Scholarship Award in 2012, and the Chirac Foundation Award for Culture for Peace in 2017.