This insight into the world of teenagers and young adults is brought to the stage firstly with a script by Caryl Churchill that is relevant to this age group in this day and age. It has a reality that bites from an amazing cast of thirty three committed young actors. The production crew led by the director Ben Proeve and assistant director Caitlin Selge have managed to get the absolute best from all those on stage.
No subject was taboo with reference throughout to problems real or imagined, humour, religion, family, emotion and connections between teenagers. There was no continual theme or lead actors except for the fact that the fifty or so scenes were all very relative to the problems and joys that happen in real life.
The continual movements on and off stage were impeccable leading seamlessly from one scene to another that may or may not have relevance to the previous scene. The rapport between the actors was palpable when arguing, showing support for each other or showing any other emotion. There was no standout performer as they were all excellent which must be a product of their rehearsing and commitment to their stagecraft.
The minimal set was ideal for this play as it allowed for quick rearrangement of props and also catered for scenes with only duets or all the cast on stage at one time. The lighting was right on cue highlighting the action on various parts of the stage. This play is different in many ways and may not be everyone’s cup of tea, such as those who may expect a traditional story. However, as a showcase for performers it is a winner.
After the finale of this show the talents of these young people were further enhanced by them adding a short showcase of eleven scenes which they have written. They were performed much to the delight of the audience.
With all this talent on display the future of the Hills Youth Theatre is assured.
