Review: The Hunger Artist by Franz Kafka, Fringe 2026

I had never seen any of Kafka’s work performed live. So I was intrigued to see Kafka’s final story, The Hunger Artist, portrayed by Jonathan Sidgwick at the Rotunda Theatre. This was a powerful, intimate performance that evoked emotions.  

This was my first time at the Rotunda Theatre and I found the venue’s tents charming, plus the staff were very friendly!

This show was in the Squeak tent and it’s size made this performance feel all the more intimate. 

An Engrossing One Man Play

The original short story is told in retrospect by a third party, but this play is told in the present, first person from The Hunger Artist himself. I found this choice made the performance all the more visceral and engaging.

This is a very good retelling of the story in play form, and it is laid out well enough for anyone unfamiliar to appreciate it too.

The play also touches upon the complexities of human nature and the cruelty of exploitation. It’s a great performance of such a thought evoking short story.

Emotionally Impactful and Intense 

Jonathan’s range is not limited by the fact he spends the majority of this performance in a cage. Jonathan very effectively conveys the desperation, despair and torment of The Hunger Artist. But he also displays the charisma associated with a showman as The Hunger Artist longs for admiration and becomes obsessed with his craft of fasting.

This is an enthralling and intense performance full of zeal.

Art That Makes You Feel

This play doesn’t feel like 50 minutes as the compelling performance absorbed my attention the entire time.

As good art should, this play really made me feel. I had that heavy feeling in my chest lingering afterwards because this play successfully made me feel the dread and despair being conveyed.

This is the kind of play that you don’t just put out of your mind when you leave. This is a fantastic performance from Jonathan Sidgwick.

At the time of posting, there are only a couple more performances this Fringe, but I really enjoyed this and I’m glad I got to see it!