Translated and directed by Carlotta Brentan 

Hide and Seek is a moving and darkly entertaining play that pits two teenage boys against each other in the face of the contagious prejudice of their small Italian town. Gio, who has never felt accepted by anyone - not by parents, teachers or peers - decides to disappear and hide out in a secluded cave. When his popular classmate Mirko discovers him, Gio enlists him as an accomplice, convincing him to preserve his secret despite the media frenzy over his disappearance. The boys embark on an unexpected journey towards self-discovery and acceptance, setting in motion a series of dramatic consequences. 

The play shines a light on bullying, homophobia and the power of social media, exploring how discriminatory voices can deeply impact young minds. It highlights how being yourself is still a risky proposition in our society when it comes to sexual orientation and independent thought. 

Tobia Rossi is one of Italy’s foremost playwrights. Hide and Seek won the 2019 Mario Fratti Award at In Scena! Italian Theater Festival NY. The worldwide premiere of the English translation was presented in May 2022 at The Tank, NYC. This production transfers from VAULT Festival 2023 where it was first performed in front of a British audience. 

 

★★★★★ ‘A gut-punch work. Dispassionate response is an impossibility.’ Lost in Theatreland 

★★★★ ‘The piece twists and turns unpredictably with thought-provoking observations and a heartbreaking foundation. This is a company to watch.’ Broadway World  

★★★★ ‘One of the best shows of this year's VAULT Festival, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats for 75 minutes. It's one of those plays that will stay with you for a long time.’ London Theatre Reviews 

‘Dark and disturbing. The audience are undoubtedly left pondering the powerful and provocative ideas at the heart of the play.’ The Reviews Hub