Commemorating the Great War with Bertie: NWTC Youth theatre 2017-2018
devised by Julie Fraser, Chris Wilson & Chantelle Bonnici
Sat 10 and Sun 11 March 2018
15.30
Altrimenti Centre Culturel, 5 ave Marie Therese, Luxembourg
One hour share of work followed by a discussion with cast and crew
Performances full up!
the Youth Group managed to collect over EUR 300 which it donated to the charity "Ile aux clowns"
Click here for:
Photos (select Bertie)
Background to play
Bertie is your average teenager, as happy being around his friends as he is dreaming of what his future holds. Starting in 1914, his world is suddenly turned upside down as World War I breaks out and he is rushed to the front-line. Inspired by Joan Littlewood’s brilliant “Oh what a lovely war”, we will take a different journey where we instead focus on how life was for Bertie, his family and friends both ‘back home’ and on the Western Front.
Process
The Youth Theatre was keen to mark the centenary of World War I. Inspired by the exhilarating “Oh what a lovely war “by Joan Littlewood, the group set about finding ways to focus on the story of the children caught up in the Great War. The script was devised by Julie Fraser, Chris Wilson & Chantelle Bonnici and directed by Julie Fraser (lead), Chris Wilson and Lesley Chesters.
On 10/11 March 2018 the group shared its work to date . The process included an exploration of various theatrical techniques (such as improvisation, commedia dell’arte and Laban), dancing and singing. During the 17 weeks of Saturday workshops (with a total of 34 hours), the group explored ways in which to bring the story to life through the actor and his/her body. The process could have continued developing for a great deal longer had we time!
“We all move to satisfy a need”
Rudolph Laban
