Waiting for Godot: A Philosophical Question

[Katurian2]

Posted: 7/25/09 at 6:35pm

I was having a conversation with someone else who had the opportunity to see the Roundabout revival of "Waiting for Godot," and we were discussing the last scene and the issue of the 'handhold' at the end of the show came up.

1) Was this in the original intent/script of Beckett? I seem to remember not. And if not- what was this production trying to lead on by this?

2) During the handhold- does anyone remember well enough- was it Nathan or Bill who put his hand out first- or was it at the same time? Seems inconsequential I know, but I still feel it has a very deep meaning in the interpretation this revival took.

Updated On: 7/25/09 at 06:35 PM

[Lumen2]

Posted: 7/25/09 at 7:31pm

It was not in the original text. Can't speak for other productions.

I believe Vladimir moved first, although don't quote me.
Updated On: 7/25/09 at 07:31 PM

[Katurian2]

Posted: 7/26/09 at 4:02pm

Yes- that's how I remembered it too. But I was honestly too, "What is THIS?!" at the moment it was happening to really remember! We all know how touchy Beckett was about altering his texts for performances.

[sparrman]

Posted: 7/26/09 at 7:31pm

Interesting choice, I'd love to see this production. In The New Yorker, John Lahr states that Lane initiates the move.
Updated On: 7/26/09 at 07:31 PM