Synopsis

Flavio Bretagna, a stressed-out owner of a household appliance company, is speeding towards a crucial meeting with an important customer, while answering numerous phone calls. Suddenly, a pressing urge compels him to stop at a small service area. Distracted, he continues talking on the phone… but when he tries to leave the restroom, the door is locked. Is this a joke? No ! The door stays locked and no one seems to hear him from outside… He realizes that he doesn’t know where he is, can’t remember how he got there, and that his phone only picks up a very weak cell signal and no internet connection! Bretagna tries to escape from this sordid toilet, calling for help his secretary (whom he usually treats with contempt), his business partner (whom he has just insulted), then his ex-wife and 5-year-old daughter (with whom he has never been present), and finally the police station, as well as a series of unexpected characters, giving rise to some hilarious moments. A pop one-man show, innovative and surprising, mixing comedy, psychological introspection and suspense.

Trailer

The Play

Toilet originally premiered in 2018 at Rome’s renowned Teatro 7 popular theater. Written, directed and performed by Gabriele Pignotta, the play immediately sparked interest in making a film adaptation, leading to a temporary suspension of its theatrical run.

In 2021, the original play was revived at Rome’s Teatro Manzoni, playing over 60 performances throughout Italy, in Rome, Turin, Bari and at the prestigious Versiliana summer festival.

At the end of the last theatrical season, Toilet returned to Teatro Manzoni, confirming its immense success with audiences and critics alike. The play was programmed again at the same Rome theater in June 2024, and will shortly embark on a new national tour of Italy, scheduled for the 2025/2026 season.

The play is currently being adapted in Spain and Miami (USA).