Spectrum

The 10 members of the Conquest Senior Youth are an inspirational Group. The concept and subject matter of their production ‘Spectrum’ was researched, devised and developed by the group themselves, ably guided and directed by Rebecca Cook. Working closely with Herefordshire Mind, Strong Young Minds and Herefordshire Young Carers to better understand the pressures and stresses that life in general throws at our teenage generation resulted in a thought provoking, emotionally challenging and extremely powerful storyline.

The set was one of the simplest I have seen in a long time. Door frames with different coloured lights around the frame were carried on and moved into different positions to emphasise the scenarios and for each character’s story. Very effective…

The opening sequence was a wonderful self-choreographed slow motioned depiction of angst with simulated pushing, shoving and slapping. Mesmerising and vaguely troubling once you recognised what was happening.

The music played throughout the play was written by cast member Alfie Newman and was used to underscore the dialogue which added to the atmosphere perfectly. However, at times it was a little too loud as it made it difficult to hear what was being said but that was a very minor thing.

The play covered teenage carers, anxiety, homosexuality, peer pressure, relationships, school geeks, exams and, tragically, suicide. The cast tackled each problem with a sensitivity and maturity that belied their ages and brought the audience up short with a stark look at what some youths in our own community are facing day after day. I am sure that each member of the cast will have taken so much from this experience; it certainly made a huge impact on the audience, which was evident when we were given the opportunity to speak to the cast and Director in a Q & A session at the end.

The 10 well balanced senior youth group members gave quality performances and I am sure that each one touched the audience in a different yet special way and so I cannot refer to anyone of them specifically as this would be unfair, they were all brilliant. This will be remembered.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.