The Simple Murderer

A play by Dennis Magnusson, directed by Dennis Sandin. Inspired by Hans Alfredson's film "Den Enfaldige Mördaren" and the book "En Ond Man - idiotens berättelse".

The quiet Sven Olsson lives in the shadows of 1930s Sweden. Because of his speech impediment and appearance, he is excluded from society - laughed at or overlooked. He is kind and considerate, tries to do right and care for others, but that very thing makes him vulnerable. He dreams of escaping poverty, of being seen, of being counted as a human being.

In an era where those who don't fit in easily end up at the bottom of the hierarchy, others set the rules. Factory owner Höglund begins as a man who seizes opportunities where he can. When he feels threatened, he hardens, step by step, until power becomes more important than people. He controls, ridicules and diminishes - with charm, with certainty, with a smile - until no one reacts anymore.

Featuring Lennart Jähkel, Einar Bredefeldt, Jessica Liedberg, Dag Malmberg, Angelika Prick and Joel Valois. Direction: Dennis Sandin. Set and costume design: Stine Martinsen. Composition and sound design: Mikael Svanervik. Lighting design: Jörgen Haimanas. Makeup: Anna Olofson. Dramaturg: Jani Lohikari. Publisher: Colombine Teaterförlag. Riksteatern. Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes including intermission.