KING’S Ely’s original production is an energetic piece, undertaken with enthusiasm and panache by its talented, young cast.
Written, directed and produced by Nick Huntington, Director of Drama and Theatre at the school, the play tells of a dystopian future where illegal children or ‘fish’, those born outwith the 2099 Birth Act which allows only parents considered suitable to apply to have children, are on the run from the authorities.
With pleasing nods to A Clockwork Orange, The Hunger Games, His Dark Materials and Maze Runner, we see authority figures, notably Roseanna Brear’s Presenter and Elric Doswell’s Zyler, violently belittle and subjugate the rebels, led by William Pinto’s Arkin. The set makes clever use of light boxes and panels and lighting props add to the futuristic ambience. Particularly fitting and harmonious is Alex Judd’s accompanying live music, provided by two excellent on-stage musicians, Thomas Scott and Ayala Gate.
The play tackles the global problem of our rapidly expanding population, touching on suicide, abortion, civic violence, elitism and political extremism. Deftly, despite the heavy subject matter, the ensemble brings brightness with moments of light and dark, humour and poignancy.
A thoroughly enjoyable, original production for 12+ audience.