DRAMA
New writing can be daunting but the company were fearless in their presentation, delivering an intense and detailed piece
of the play. Conor Burke portrayed the damaged Captain Willard with maturity and strength. Clever use of space and multi-purpose crates pushed the story toward its gruelling end, and this production made me ponder why this legendary story hasn’t been adapted for the stage before. Jonson presented a stylish and slick production of Out of the Sky , an original piece by Jamie Spillett based on a true hijacking story set in 1971. Also directed by Jamie, the play was highly enjoyable and performed with confidence. Using only suitcases as props, the ensemble transformed the space into a variety of locations with fluidity and panache. A brilliant build-up of tension was achieved as the story unravelled, leaving the audience with goosebumps at the very end. The second Tarantino adaptation of the evening was Marlowe’s Reservoir Dogs , an incredibly talented take on arguably one of the most famous scenes in modern film, directed by Asher Laws. Funny, tight, confident - this ensemble completely owned their parts and presented detailed characterisations. It opened with a striking first image which filled the entire space and exuded an energy which was sustained for the rest of the scene. It would be difficult to single out one performer, as this was a true ensemble piece — with the best American accents of the night! Closing the evening and changing the mood, Spenser took us into the world of Berkoff’s Metamorphosis . Frank Kauer’s direction, and his portrayal of the anguished Gregor Samsa, was detailed and accomplished. He was joined by Chyaro Hylton, Izer Onadim and Fergus Thomas as the family, and the quartet of actors moved dexterously through the scenes, integrating the considered choreography into the storytelling. Approached with sensitivity and purpose, this piece was a brilliant end to a stellar evening. I left in awe and brimming with pride for all eight houses. It’s a hard task to put something together amidst homework, exams and extra-curricular activities. And yet, every one of these companies surpassed themselves, delivering entertaining, touching and first-rate plays. Thank you and well done! It was an absolute joy.
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