Beloved Bulgarian Comedic Duo Returns to Stage in New Production
Sofia, Bulgaria - Fan favorites Lyubo Neykov and Nencho Ilchev, known for their comedic chemistry on television, are reuniting for a new theatrical performance titled “Butterflies in the Stomach,” which premiered October 4th. The play explores themes of love, friendship, and the complexities of life through a humorous lens, promising audiences a blend of laughter and poignant moments.
The production marks a return to the stage for the pair, who have enjoyed a 30-year friendship and a popular television presence with their show “Comedians.” “Butterflies in the stomach” centers on two men vying for the affection of a woman, portrayed by Lily sucheva, with Neykov playing an ambitious television producer struggling with his personal life and Ilchev as his longtime friend. The dynamic is further intricate by the introduction of Neykov’s father,played by Ivan Radoev,who portrays a character experiencing sclerosis.
Ilchev and Radoev share a history predating their time at the National Academy for Theater and Film Arts (NATFIZ), having previously attended acting studios together under director Boncho Urumov. This pre-existing rapport contributes to the play’s layered relationships.
According to Ilchev,the audience immediately recognized the genuine connection between himself and Neykov at the premiere. “They told me, ‘How do you see that you know each other and you are pleased to be together.’ that’s why we live – someone to make a blunder, make a mistake and the other to laugh. That’s how the performance is alive,” he told 24 Hours.He described the comedy as a scenario “with a lot of sense,” adding, “it’s funny, it’s sad-it’s the most enjoyable to play and the best thing to watch.”
the play is directed by Nikolay gunderov, who received the Aleko Konstantinov Award for Satirical Standup Comedy in 2020 for his play “Crochet Club” and the Askeer award for contemporary Bulgarian dramaturgy in 2017.
