Having a new classmate is nothing unusual. But having a new classmate from a foreign country, someone who does not speak your language and needs your support and understanding, is an opportunity to show just how friendly and willing to help you can be. Unfortunately, things turn out quite differently for Sasha, the new girl from Russia. Despite doing her very best to fit in at school, her classmates not only make fun of her but also accuse her of terrible things because of her origins, damage her belongings and completely ostracise her.
That is, until Sasha meets Enzo, the son of the history teacher. Although their first encounter does not go particularly well, Enzo soon proves himself worthy of becoming her friend. He shows her around the city, talks to her about the past and stands up for her when others say horrible things about her. Gradually, the two fall in love and, for a while, everything seems perfect. They are inseparable.
However, Alex, Enzo's friend, manages to plant a seed of doubt in his mind by suggesting that his relationship with Sasha might be toxic. Although deep down he senses that this is the wrong decision, Enzo refuses to see Sasha anymore. He soon realises just how badly he has misjudged the situation and decides to make things right with her. At the end of the school year, during the graduation ceremony, he puts his plan into action.
About the play:
Written by students of “Grigore Moisil” Theoretical High School in Timișoara, under the guidance of playwright Elise Wilk, Sasha & Enzo is a sensitive and personal exploration of issues such as school bullying and the integration of students into their school communities.
Directed by Alexandru Mihăescu, the production features Aida Olaru (Sasha), Robert Bogdanov-Schein (Enzo), Bülent Özdil (Claudiu) and Richard Hladik (Alex).
Through the conversations between Enzo and his father, the history teacher, the play also raises questions about the role teachers can play in helping students integrate. Meanwhile, through the relationship between Enzo and Alex, the production explores how teenagers can find a balance between school, friendships, love and their own personal interests.
