DNA by Dennis Kelly

On Wednesday, 5th February, I had the delightful opportunity to attend Urmston Grammar School’s production of DNA by Dennis Kelly. For those unfamiliar with DNA, it is a compelling play that explores themes of bullying, gang membership, social responsibility, morality, and leadership. The story revolves around a group of teenagers who engage in a reprehensible act and, upon realising the gravity of their actions, panic and attempt to cover it up. Ironically, it is their efforts to conceal their misdeed that bring them together, uniting them and bringing harmony to their previously fractured lives.

Upon arriving at Urmston Grammar, I was warmly welcomed by a wonderful team of staff, led by the exemplary Mrs Glen. As I entered the auditorium of Urmston Grammar Studio Theatre, I was immediately struck by the open stage, which effectively set the scene for the play. The staging was exceptionally well-designed, with a creative woodland setting and strategically mapped-out areas such as a street with a bus stop and a field where characters frequently met throughout the story. These pivotal staging areas were seamlessly integrated with the artistic intention, minimising blackouts and maintaining the play's overall flow. The performing arts department further enhanced the mysterious setting with the use of haze, creating a truly atmospheric approach—although a bit overused in the second half, it effectively set the play's tone at the start.

The play commenced with the introduction of John Tate, played by Daniel, who portrayed the group's leader. Daniel commanded the stage with confidence, delivering his dialogue with strong characterisation, despite occasionally rushing and lacking diction. Nonetheless, his ability to respond to other performers on stage was commendable. Adam, who played Danny, the ‘strait-laced’ student aspiring to become a dentist, delivered his lines with a touch of humour, effectively conveying his character’s sense of worry through his tonal delivery. Freya brilliantly portrayed Leah, capturing her constant verbosity and anxious state with precision. Her attention to detail in her interactions with the character Phil, including well-planned pauses and glances, was noteworthy.

Special commendations go to Max, who played Brian, and Corey, who played Adam. Their exceptional characterisation and consistent performance throughout the entire production were nothing short of brilliant, marking them as performers to watch. Krithi, who portrayed Rochelle, delivered her lines with a lovely tone and pitch, commanding the stage with confidence and excellent projection, particularly during the moment she addressed the cast about one of their schoolmates.

The overall ensemble, including understudies for the main cast, significantly enhanced the production. I firmly believe that every member of a production plays an equally important role, and this cast embodied that sentiment perfectly.

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire team at Urmston Grammar for a truly wonderful performance of DNA, exuding creativity and a strong sense of working as a theatre company. Thank you to all the staff and pupils at Urmston Grammar. I eagerly anticipate your future work.

Andy Milthorpe

NODA District 1 Representative

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