Wed Nov 13 06:20:04 UTC 2024: ## Malkovich’s “Arms and the Man” Sparks Outrage in Bulgaria
**Sofia, Bulgaria -** A production of George Bernard Shaw’s “Arms and the Man,” directed by renowned actor John Malkovich, has ignited a firestorm of controversy in Bulgaria, with nationalist groups denouncing the play as an insult to the nation.
The premiere of the play, a humorous take on the late 19th century Serbo-Bulgarian conflict, was met with protests last week. Nationalist groups, holding banners reading “Malkovich go home,” attempted to storm the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, accusing the director of ridiculing Bulgarian history and its citizens.
“This play is a disgrace and must be banned,” declared Yoana Ilieva, a 21-year-old student among the protestors. “It makes a mockery of our ancestors who perished for Bulgaria.”
However, Malkovich expressed astonishment at the reaction, stating, “It is a quite odd reaction, but it is a strange time in the world—more and more people love to censor things they do not agree with.” He described the play as a “charming, light, kind of anti-war” comedy, which he had previously staged on Broadway in 1985.
The play, which explores the absurdity of war and the flaws of heroic adulation and militarism, was performed in an almost empty theatre due to the protests. Malkovich emphasized that seeking historical accuracy in a play is “frighteningly naive.”
The controversy underscores the rising tide of nationalism and intolerance seen in many parts of the world.
First Piper 