Holiday in Zürich is a moving and tender show about a couple’s farewell journey. Featuring a touching story with a layer of humour, Holiday in Zürich is worth to see for the strong and beautiful performances. While intense and surprising, the show reminds us that life is about quality and not always about quantity.
Holiday in Zürich is a one-act play about an elderly couple preparing for their trip to Zurich. Wife Tiny (Danielle Desormeaux) is enthusiastic about the itinerary she has meticulously planned for their trip. Every activity, every restaurant, even the outfits are planned to the last detail. Husband Frank (Brian Dooley) is listening, but he is not as animated about the trip as Tiny. At first, it seems they each have different reasons for going to Switzerland. As the conversations continue, it is revealed that Frank is terminally ill and is going to Zürich for medically assisted end-of-life. Tiny wants to make the most of their final holiday together. Frank is willing to go along with her plans but he is not distracted from his goal. The couple reflect on their life together; their friends and hobbies, their flirtations, and the tragedies they suffered. Tiny becomes reluctant about the trip, and Frank tries to help her understand his decision. The tension almost pushes the couple to take separate directions.
It’s a portrait of a life of an ordinary couple, who love and care for each other. But the inevitability of death brings acceptance from Frank and resistance from Tiny. She understands Frank will die, but she wants it to be later instead of sooner. They want what is best for each other. Their good intensions don’t quite meet the other’s needs.
While this story may seem very sad and frustrating, there are many touches of humour. It shows a couple who are very bonded and understanding of each other. The humour brings a bit of levity and humanity to a story about how to meet death with love and care for your partner. Some parts of the text could be tightened a bit. There is a little bit of repetition. And you will never hear the music of Celine Dion quite the same way again.
The performances are powerful and riveting. Mr. Dooley is excellent at showing Frank’s consideration for Tiny in spite of his obvious pain and discomfort. Ms. Desormeaux is lively and passionate. The actors are believable at creating a couple of long standing. Bravo!
Letting go can be one of the most difficult and frightening experiences in life. Courage is not enough. A loving partner can help carry the challenges along the final path.
Photo Credit: Andrée Lanthier
Holiday in Zürich. Show continues to November 22, at the Centaur Theatre, 453 St-François-Xavier, Old Montreal. For tickets call the box office at 514-288-3161 or go to www.centaurtheatre.com
