by Rob Drummond
Is cannibalism wrong?
About the play
A group of teenagers wake up in a forest with no clue how they got there. They find themselves separated into two different coloured teams but have no idea what game they are expected to play. With no food, no water, and seemingly no chance to escape, it’s only a matter of time before things start to get drastic. But whose side are you on, and how far would you go to survive? This is a play about human nature, the tribes we create, and cannibalism.
Director’s note
What a whirlwind introduction to NAPA! Thank you for welcoming me into your inspiring community. I am honoured to continue my professional relationship with Lynn, and to get to know Laurie, Kim and the rest of the team.
These young people are wonderful and I love working with them. We were all deeply disappointed to lose Mia, Evie and Alicia in the cast due to the border shutdown. They remain in the spirit of the piece we have created, and we hope very much to play with them very soon!
This is an interesting piece to create in that no lines are allocated – hence I have allocated lines to each character. Also, it combines storytelling with direct audience communication (breaking the fourth wall). Naturalism and choreographed physicality dovetail. Each young person has been tasked with creating their own character’s trajectory, history and relationships, in addition to personally crafting their costumes. As you watch the performance, you will notice how they have created personal moments and connections. I have consciously structured the piece to consist of interjecting dialogue, requiring each actor to listen and respond intently. Perhaps you can imagine how challenging it was to then adjust with our three actors interstate! These talented and inspiring young people have risen to the challenge. Whilst acknowledging their profound regret at not acting with their friends, they have all taken on extra lines with very short notice. Special mention to Asha and Ruby. Jaeda must also be recognised. Jaeda has jumped into the cast at the last moment and brings utmost professionalism, commitment and talent to our production. Thank you Jaeda!
DIRECTOR, Claudine Anderson
Acknowledgement of Country
We would like to acknowledge and pay our respects to the traditional custodians of this land; collectively known as Yugambeh language speaking people and region. We would also like to pay our respect to elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
National Academy of Performing Arts
PRE-SENIOR TREAD THE BOARDS Class 2021
| 1 | Lucia Umpierrez |
| 3 | Bella Ly |
| 5 | Lola Kennard |
| 7 | Emily Lean |
| 9 | Lucy Matus |
| 11/13 | Ruby Nolan |
| 15 | Hannah Strutt |
| 2/12 | Asha Butler-Smith |
| 4 | Rose Cooper |
| 6 | Koby Mercer |
| 8 | Haysal Denzongpa-Bathols |
| 10 | Ava Guildbransen |
| 14 | Jaeda Power |
| 16 | Chelsea Reeves |
Jaeda Power
The wonderful David Willis for recording the final scene
The lovely Thomas Bell for designing the lighting
The always amazing Laurie for everything!
The beautiful Miss Lynn for operating, organising, managing and most of all inspiring!
The talented Miss Kim for repeatedly teaching me how to switch things on
All the parents and caregivers for facilitating the young people’s journey in art, and generous volunteering
Our wonderful photographer, Beau
The charismatic Ryan for videography
Trina for the beautiful digital program
And the inspiring, magical leaders of the future – our actors!
