Maxi Blaha in “Soul of Fire”.
In a gripping performance, Austrian actress, Maxi Blaha, portrays episodes from Bertha von Suttner’s life and work. Costumed by Moana Stemberger in a turn-of-the-century period gown over a pair of modern-day trousers and stylishly modern shoes, Blaha creates an impressive figure, giving a modern-day relevance to the story of this woman who achieved so much for the peace movement.
All aspects of this complex woman are portrayed extremely well. We see the frustration of an intelligent, educated woman trying to find her place in a world of men, flirting with a singing career initially and turning more successfully to writing.
She’s not perfect. Some of her airs and graces are unattractive and there are hints of depression.
The accompanying mood music on electric guitar played by Georg Buxhofer adds a pleasing and haunting dimension to the show. The simple set gives the impression of a period drawing room with tall windows using only some simple curtaining and expert lighting.
This is an opportunity to see a major Austrian actress in performance. The depth of characterisation presented here is quite extraordinary.
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