Zij & Hij is a stage adaptation of the 2021 film Malcolm & Marie by Sam Levinson. The play captures a nocturnal argument between a couple returning home after the premiere of her film. What starts as petty irritation spirals into a confrontation in which he voices a deep-rooted need for recognition, while she fights to detach herself from that need—without guilt.
The characters carry a background that places them outside the dominant Western, white norm. Their conflict isn’t just about personal grievances but also about the pressure to challenge outside expectations and prejudices.
Despite the struggle, they always circle back to one another. The performance is a relentless, emotional wrestle through themes like family, love, trauma, art, and personal ambition. The heaviness of the night is ever-present; moments of levity are fleeting, but through brave honesty, a sense of release emerges. Bitter and liberating in equal measure.
Performed by Ibtissam Boulbahaiem, Noa Tambwe Kabati
Acting coaches Jolente De Keersmaeker, Frank Vercruyssen
Dramaturgy Aïcha Cissé, Rashif El Kaoui
Outside eye Saloua Hassani
Costumes Zazie Bakos
Set & lighting design Lars Uten
Technical support Lore Verhoeven
With the support of tg STAN, de Roovers, and Monty
