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Diary Of An Expat

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Diary of an Expat is a solo show directed by Katharina Reinthaller (Labels, Fringe First Winner 2015), telling the comic story of the encounter between modern migrant Cecilia and London – a contemporary El Dorado craved by generations of young Europeans.

When she arrived in the UK from Italy nine years ago, with a suitcase full of hopes, dreams and bags of pasta, Cecilia’s mission began: trying to become British whilst remaining deeply Italian. She started her exciting life abroad with thrilling adventures, a successful career and a vibrant urban lifestyle… kind of.

Now, after numerous dubious jobs and weird encounters, Cecilia finds herself alone among the chaos of multi-ethnic, glamorous London whilst navigating the ever-present uncertainty of Brexit. Now turning her desires into reality has become a titanic endeavour as the European dream of life abroad slowly drifts away.

Based on real testimonies as well as personal experiences of writer Cecilia Gragnani, Diary of an Expat looks at lives of Europeans abroad and their urgency to understand and explore what expatriating means for a younger generation. Confronting the legal technicalities of becoming a citizen of another country, Cecilia questions what role this will play on her identity and how we decide where we belong.

‘Britain is a fantastic place to live: a modern, thriving society with a long and illustrious history’

LIFE IN THE UK BOOK

‘Best Fringe Shows for Brexit Satire. … There is a faint Weimar feel to Diary of an Expat; a passing era of European tolerance under threat. These Brexit dramas all delivered wonderfully in their own way. If we can’t make Britain great again, we can at least make it funny.’

THE SCOTSMAN

‘A warm, engaging presence’

THE STAGE

‘Her performance is tinged with a British politeness, with criticisms introduced carefully, and the performance itself obedient of the best British theatrical traditions of farce. It’s a show that puts a human face on the consequences of Brexit, and needs to tour.’

THEATERSTUCK

‘Gragnani has a very clear delivery, and good rapport with the audience. A heartfelt and poignant production.’

LONDON THEATRE 1

Venue: The Workshop, Exeter Phoenix