FROM the Passmores Drama Department

ON Thursday 28th September we took 30 of our GCSE Drama students in Year 10 and 11 to Harlow Playhouse to watch “Breaking Point” – a devised piece by new local theatrical group Mercy Theatre Company.

The piece looked at the internal breaking point teens may encounter against the backdrop of social pressure and the desire to kick back against societal regimes, and the importance of questioning those regimes.

The performance took place in the old BHS unit in the Harvey Centre and provided our pupils with an exciting insight into how any venue can become a theatrical space.
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The performance was well attended and thought-provoking. Audience members were asked to contribute on their arrival by filling in a post-it note stating what ‘home’ means to them, this was then featured in the opening of the show.

The performance had some interesting physical aspects, incorporating dance and singing, alongside some quality acting and use of monologue and direct address to provide the audience with a clear understanding of the characters’ inner thoughts.

The use of symbolism and semiotics added meaning throughout. Mercy Theatre Company is made up of actors, directors and producers from Harlow and it was a real treat to see some home-grown talent, including Passmores alumni, on stage and operating lights and sound.

As teachers we don’t always get to see the onward journey once pupils leave us, subsequently any opportunity to see pupils thriving in their chosen field as young adults is a privilege.