The semi-documentary play “I Am My Own Wife” tells of American author Doug Wright’s fascination with the life of Charlotte von Mahlsdorf, a German transvestite caught up in the great European dramas of the 20th century. Unlike many contemporaries, von Mahlsdorf survived the Nazi regime and its replacement in East Germany, the Soviet-dominated Communist dictatorship, and ended her life in times of democracy as an eccentric antiques dealer in East Berlin. . Young director Nadia Pancheva faithfully and thoroughly follows Doug Wright’s narrative, filled with numerous plot twists, revelations and humour, which takes us back to the dramatic faith of Charlotte marked by her desire to stand for her right to personal freedom. She is portrayed on stage by debuting actor Dimitar Angelov. Talentedly and with ease, he changes costumes, speaks, sings, plays the electric piano, dances and gets under the skin of not only the protagonist, but also of key people in her life.

This is the first Bulgarian staging of Doug Wright’s play from 2004, which brought him a number of awards, including the prestigious “Pulitzer” and “Tony”. It is also a natural consequence of Nadya Pancheva’s interest in modern English drama as a graduate from the National Academy of Theatre and Film Arts in 2021 and currently successfully directing independent productions and on the stage of repertoire theatres.

Icarus Award 2024 Nomination for best debut (Dimitar Angelov)

With English surtitles. 

The performance is not suitable for people under 16.