Crippletrek (CZ)

The Touching and Grotesque Journey of the Inmates of the “Last Leg” Residential Institute

Two strange, “lost” figures play out their grandiose finale in a fantastic, surreal road movie filled with black humour, cruelty, and tenderness — all woven into a mosaic of powerful poetic images.
A deep human confession about life, love, and dignity.

This surreal, poetic vision makes us laugh and moves us at the same time — a subtly humorous yet deeply touching tribute to all those who continue to live their lives despite the limits of their bodies and the blows of fate.

“As in our previous Provoking Theater Project performances, we once again use theatrical means to address topics that are often neglected — themes that tend to remain on the margins of everyday interest, yet are exceptionally important.”

The creators of Líšeň Theatre, Pavla Dombrovská and Luděk Vémola, have developed a unique theatrical language where masks, puppets, music, and live performance blend seamlessly. The harmony between the grotesque and the lyrical moments makes the performance both heart-wrenching and liberating.

Crippletrek portrays with sensitivity and compassion those whom society tends to push to the margins — the elderly, the frail, or the ill — yet who remain full of stories, desires, and human dignity.

In 2024, the performance won the City of Plzeň Award at the Skupa’s Plzeň Festival for its outstanding mask design (Jakub Růžička).

“Are we still capable of transcending our deeply rooted prejudices and extending a helping hand to those in need — regardless of their background or financial situation?”

Concept, Script, Music and Direction: Pavla Dombrovská, with the help from Luděk Vémola
Set, Props, Lights and Sound: Luděk Vémola, with the help from Pavla Dombrovská
Masks and Puppets: Jakub Růžička
Performed, Sung, Lit, and Sound operated by: Luděk Vémola and Pavla Dombrovská

Recommended age: 16+
Duration: 50’
Language: in Czech language, with Hungarian subtitles