9.49°C Two youth theatre groups have joined forces with the Mercury Theatre to stage a powerful production tackling the complex issues of asylum seekers and immigration.
Colchester and Wivenhoe youth theatres present Island in the Mercury Studio on Friday and Saturday, 5 and 6 April. 2013. The production is directed by the theatre’s Drama Practitioner, David Norton, and is based on the graphic novel of the same name by Swiss author and designer Armin Greder.
David explains that the story centres on a self-sufficient island community whose world is disrupted by the arrival of a stranger. Initially fearful of what the outsider may bring, the islanders soon begin to exploit him for labour.
“It carries a strong political message about how we think about immigration and asylum seekers in this country,” David said.
The Mercury’s Community and Education team has worked with young people for more than 15 years, using drama to build confidence, teamwork and leadership skills. Participants develop communication abilities, creativity and imagination, while also gaining experience performing on professional stages and working alongside directors, designers and technical staff.
Island will be performed on Friday, 5 April at 6pm, with two performances on Saturday, 6 April at 2.45pm and 6pm.
Tickets are £5. For more information contact the Mercury Theatre Box Office on 01206 573948 or visit www.mercurytheatre.co.uk.
