A source of controversy as much today as it was when it was first published in 2001, Michel Vinaver's play '11 september 2001/11 September 2001' focuses on the tragic events of that fateful day, which saw the attack by terrorists on the World Trade Center, or Twin Towers, in New York City. Written by the playwright in French first but published in a bilingual French/English edition, '11 September 2001' is an avant-garde piece of theatre that uses contemporary testimonials from journalistic and media sources and personal stories to piece together how the world witnessed the attack and how the world has come to terms with it in the years since.
Consisting of an ensemble cast whose roles are both group and individual at different points, music, and physicality play key roles in Vinaver's play. Described by some as sensationalistic and a blatant attempt to profit from the tragic deaths of those who were inside the World Trade Center on that terrible day and by others as a meaningful attempt to engage with an event that will never be forgotten by people who have seen footage of it, '11 September 2001' is a daring, provocative and artistically innovative piece of theatre and one that you must see before deciding which argument you agree with.
"11 September 2001" by Michel Vinaver is a powerful and poignant play that grapples with the profound impact of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Written in the aftermath of the tragic events, Vinaver's work captures the emotional and psychological responses of individuals confronted with the shocking and transformative events of that fateful day. The play serves as both a reflection on the collective consciousness and a testament to the enduring influence of historical moments on the human experience.
Vinaver's narrative unfolds through a mosaic of voices and perspectives, presenting a collage of scenes that explore the immediate aftermath of the attacks and their ripple effects across the world. The playwright uses a nuanced approach to delve into the complexities of human reactions, offering a deeply human portrayal of fear, grief, and the search for meaning in the face of profound tragedy. "11 September 2001" is not merely a historical account but a probing exploration of the emotional and philosophical dimensions of a moment that shook the world.
As a work of theater, "11 September 2001" stands as a testament to the medium's ability to engage with contemporary events and provide a platform for reflection and dialogue. Vinaver's play invites audiences to confront the raw and complex emotions stirred by the events of 9/11, fostering a deeper understanding of the individual and collective responses to a moment that left an indelible mark on global consciousness.
