Theatre / Community Theatre
Review: Acts of Resistance, Bristol Old Vic
Acts of Resistance is an ambitious community piece created in collaboration with Headlong, under the umbrella of their new initiative, Headlong Futures. This unique collaboration between Bristol Old Vic, New Perspectives, Theatre Royal Plymouth and The Brewery Arts Centre gives a voice to a nation gathering courage for action in a time of uncertainty.
Sometime in the ‘not so distant future’, four women step out to lead their community to a protest against fracking. The parallels between the recent Brexit protests are not lost on a supportive Old Vic audience, as ‘not so distant’ could well be tomorrow or indeed the last few weeks.
The stage is fully populated from the outset and it’s palpable how much this piece means to the communities that have come together from Bristol, Kendal, Mansfield and Plymouth. This diverse ensemble with ages ranging from teenagers to pensioners, presents a vivid insight into pockets of contemporary Britain.
is needed now More than ever
Stef Smith’s script threads together scenes from inner-city teenagers, the Women’s Institute, a family dinner and a boat just off shore, manoeuvring around the Old Vic stage with seamless charm. This clever script is complemented with some nice touches by movement director Cressida Carré.
It is obvious that this project has been a labour of love, as the detail and time put into the individual scenes give the piece buoyancy and allow each group their moment to shine. There are some lovely moments of tenderness that highlight the continual shift of our lives and this nation’s ever-changing landscape.
The 34-strong cast are generous in their support for one another, with some standout performances – in particular the young schoolgirl from Bristol. Her heartfelt monologue about the struggles of finding her place in this city was as masterfully crafted as any professional performance.
Acts of Resistance is a perfect example of how theatre can bring communities together.
This piece couldn’t be more timely, as communities all over this island buckle down in hope. But as we were reminded at the end of the piece, hope alone isn’t enough.
Acts of Resistance was performed at Bristol Old Vic on Sun, Apr 7 and Mon, Apr 8. For more info, visit headlong.co.uk/productions/acts-resistance
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