IN partnership with Anvil Arts, Central Studio and Proteus Theatre Company, Basingstoke Youth Theatre presents The Good Person of Szechwan at The Haymarket on Thursday, July 10 at 7.30pm.
Set in an unjust society where good can only survive by means of evil, this adaptation of Bertold Brecht’s 1941 classic story of altruism, morality and disguise follows Shen Te, a young prostitute, as she struggles to lead a life that is deemed ‘good’ by the gods; a life to which her fellow citizens of Szechwan merely pay lip service.
Using both music and physical theatre, this interpretation of The Good Person of Szechwan shows how society can change to solve the social and economic problems we face.
How can a good person thrive in a world that is not good... only you can decide!
The Good Person of Szechwan is directed by Amanda Affleck-Cruise and Ross Harvie.
Ross explains: “This challenging version of The Good Person Szechwan has pushed the Basingstoke Youth Theatre to new heights.
“We’ve brought this revolutionary tale bang up to date giving Brecht’s classic a modern twist by exploring the current conflict between Ukraine and Russia and using that as a framework to tell the story in true Brechtian style.”
Megan Mason (16), one of the participants, adds: "Being part of 'The Good Person' has been such a great experience. I've been cast as a difficult character to portray; however, it has really developed me as an actor.
“I've been able to work with some great people during this project. It's been fun so far and I can't wait to show what we've achieved to an audience.
“I've been part of Basingstoke Youth Theatre for over a year now and it's what I look forward to every week. Everyone is so friendly to each other and we support each other; because of this I've made some great friends and been able to grow."
Stephanie Monger, centre director at Central Studio, said: “Central Studio is thrilled to be working in partnership with Proteus Theatre Company and Anvil Arts to produce The Good Person of Szechwan.
“The youth theatre has been rehearsing weekly at Central Studio since February, working with dedication and enthusiasm. We can’t wait to watch the final performance at The Haymarket!”
Box office: 01256 844244, anvilarts.org.uk.
Anvil Arts is managed by The Anvil Trust, an independent educational charity.
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