In Strindberg’s words, “Everything can happen, everything is possible and probable. Time and place do not exist.”
A god’s daughter descends to earth to find out why everyone is complaining. As the dream unfolds she witnesses the pain and depravity of human existence in a world of broken dreams. ‘A Dream Play’ is a beautiful but tormented play examining joy and suffering in a bittersweet exploration of what it means to be human.
DIRECTOR’S NOTE
Where do I begin? At the beginning would perhaps be logical, but (as you will see) there are times when it would appear that logically even logic must be wrong! But I digress.
I was introduced to A Dream Play by Katherine Chapman, and I instantly fell in love with it. The play mimics the seemingly logical but fragmented shape of a dream, and it was this in particular which drew me to it. I knew I was taking on a mammoth task in bringing this wonderful, but rather challenging, adaptation to the stage. However, none of what you see on stage tonight could have been possible without the dedication and hard work of so many people.
Firstly, I would like to thank the design team for their enthusiasm, for putting up with bonkers ideas from me (‘can we have a fridge door?’) and for their beautiful designs which have brought this play to life.
To the cast, I am constantly impressed by the talent you’ve displayed throughout this process. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to this bonkers play during the all-consuming exam period, and for making those long rehearsals in Mappin so brilliant. You will all be fantastic this week and I am more than confident that you will give the performances you deserve.
Finally, I would also like to thank my fantastic production team (otherwise known as the Dream Team) who have been incredible. Thank you to Kat, Chorley, Kate and Heather for your hard work, your brilliant ideas and your determination. I have been incredibly lucky to work with such a great group of people. What can I say? It’s been a dream.
CAST
Agnes – Jade Richards
Officer – Matthew Plant
Solicitor – Andy Elkington
Writer – Daniel Turner
Blind Man / Father / Barrister – Stuart Gresham
Quarantine Master / Edith / Chair – Mel Harrison
Lina / Glazier / Maid / Teacher – Jenny Pendriss
Billstick / He /Newlywed / Building Worker / Psychoanalyst – Joe Bunce
Mother / Kristin / She / Scientist – Lucy Weston
Stage Door Keeper / Lieutenant / Building Worker / Bishop – Jono Wells
Tegan Shea – Dancer
Zoe Greenhill – Dancer
PRODUCTION TEAM
Director – Bethan Ratcliffe
Production Manager – Katherine Chapman
Producer – Dominic Corfield
Stage Manager – Heather Newson
Choreographer – Kate Butler
CREW
Lighting Designer – Hamish Ellis
Composer – Matthew Malone
Set Designer – Rachel Roberts
Costume – Sarah Rubini, Rachel Wassell
Lighting Operator – Robyn Park
Sound Operator – Luke Singleton
SuTCo 