Aalst (play)

Aalst is a play by Belgian playwright Pol Heyvaert, written in 2000. It is a docu-drama, meaning it is based on a real-life criminal case. The play centers on the story of a couple, Stefaan and Kristel, who were convicted of murdering their two-year-old son, Bjorn.

The script primarily consists of transcripts from police interviews and courtroom testimonies given by Stefaan and Kristel. Heyvaert's theatrical adaptation presents these transcripts with minimal added commentary or embellishment, aiming to portray the events and the psychological state of the couple as objectively as possible.

Aalst explores themes of poverty, social marginalization, domestic violence, and the challenges faced by individuals struggling with mental health issues. It is a stark and unsettling portrayal of a family tragedy, raising questions about the nature of evil and the complexities of human behavior within challenging circumstances.

The play has been translated into several languages and has been performed internationally. Its minimalist staging and reliance on factual documentation contribute to its powerful and often disturbing impact on audiences. Aalst is considered a significant work in contemporary European theatre, prompting discussions about the role of theater in representing and interpreting real-life events and challenging audiences to confront difficult and uncomfortable truths.